Rare Yue Celadon-Glazed Vessel, Jin dynasty (265-420)
Rare Yue Celadon-Glazed Vessel, Jin dynasty (265-420)
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An early yue celadon jar with a globular body, a short tubular spout, and a single handle attached at the shoulder. The vessel is coated with a grey-green celadon glaze, unevenly applied, with areas of direct clay body exposure where the glaze is thin or absent.
The surface exhibits a complex crackle network that originated from glaze contraction and was further developed through prolonged burial. The cracks vary in depth, width, and direction, with some penetrating through the glaze layer into the body. Mineral deposits and earthen residues within the fissures indicate long-term interaction with the burial environment.
Period : Jin Dynasty (266 - 420 AD)
Type : Vessel
Medium : Yue celadon(Stoneware)
Height : 15cm
Provenance : The piece was acquired in Hong Kong in the year 1999.
Condition : Good(Very good condition for its age. Natural glaze wear, crackling, and mineral accretions from long-term burial are present and stable. No structural damage, repairs, or restorations observed.)
Reference :
1) Ashmolean Museum - Accession no.EA1956.332
http://jameelcentre.ashmolean.org/collection/8/object/11674
2) Ashmolean Museum - Accession no.EA1956.211
http://jameelcentre.ashmolean.org/collection/8/object/11754
* Yue Celadon
Yue celadon, also known as Yue ware, is a type of Chinese pottery with a celadon glaze, originating from the eastern Han dynasty (25-220 AD) in the Zhejiang province. The name 'Yue' comes from the Yue kilns which were among the earliest to develop the celadon technique. Yue ware is known for its jade-like glaze, which can range in color from bluish-green to olive green.
Yue celadon was highly regarded during its time and was the first Chinese ware to be imported in large quantities to the Middle East and Africa, significantly influencing the development of ceramics in those regions. The production of Yue ware continued to evolve, and during the Tang dynasty (618-907 AD), it became more refined with more complex shapes and decorations. By the time of the Song dynasty (960-1279 AD), it had greatly influenced other kiln traditions, leading to the development of the classic longquan celadon, which became one of China’s most famous ceramic products.
Yue celadon traditionally embodies elements of auspiciousness and good fortune in Chinese culture. The jade-like celadon glaze is often associated with longevity and health. Various motifs and shapes inscribed on the pottery frequently symbolize luck and prosperity. For example, lotus patterns may represent purity and immortality, while animal figures like the lion symbolizes power, courage, and strength. Lions are considered protectors that ward off evil spirits and bring forth good luck. Furthermore, Yue celadon wares were commonly used as tomb offerings in ancient China, believed to bring fortune and well-being to the deceased in the afterlife.
