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Chinese antique pottery wabi-sabi vase/12th-14th century/Cizhou kiln

$1,200
£914.66
€1,054.97
CA$1,704.36
A$1,831.51
CHF 982.71
MX$21,574.10
NOK 12,356.52
SEK 11,287.61
DKK 7,884.40

About the Item

This is a vase believed to have been fired at the Cizhou kilns in northern China. Known for their distinctive white-slip base and bold black glaze decoration, the Cizhou kilns flourished from the Northern Song dynasty (960–1127) and became one of the most celebrated folk kilns in northern China, prized for their rustic charm and powerful visual expression. This particular piece is thought to date from the Jin to Yuan dynasty period (12th to 14th century). It strongly reflects the Cizhou kiln tradition, with a stately and commanding presence. Measuring 33.5 cm in height and 13 cm in diameter, it is not overly large, yet it holds significant visual weight. The gently constricted neck and foot lend the vessel a refined and elegant silhouette, and the overall form is beautifully balanced, combining aesthetic appeal with a solid sense of stability. Originally, the surface would have been finished with a clear glaze, giving it a glossy appearance. However, as this is an excavated piece, the glaze has weathered over time, resulting in a soft, matte texture that adds to its timeless charm. The body is adorned with abstract designs rendered in iron pigment, encircling the vessel in a rhythm of rustic elegance. It has a long body with a small neck and two vertical lines on each of its four ears. Based on the existence of bottles with the name of the sake printed on them, these four-eared bottles are thought to be sake bottles.A similar piece is documented in art reference books, and we have included a photo of that reference for comparison. There are areas on the surface where the glaze has flaked off, which is consistent with the piece’s age and long history of preservation. These signs of wear serve to accentuate its status as a one-of-a-kind artifact. The base and parts of the ears show traces of old repairs using black lacquer. We conducted a 24-hour water retention test by filling the vessel halfway, and no leakage was observed. It can be used functionally as a flower vase without concern. In a contemporary setting, whether placed in an alcove, a living room, or a gallery corner, this vase brings a sense of gravity and refinement to the space. Even a single flower or branch can create a striking visual harmony, with the vessel’s form contributing to an almost painterly stillness. This vase is not only practical but also an exceptional piece through which one can appreciate the beauty of East Asian ceramic history and the artistry of folk kilns. It is highly recommended as a collectible or a meaningful gift. Please take a look at the actual item and enjoy its presence and craftsmanship, which cannot be fully conveyed through photographs. Dimensions: Diameter 13 cm × Height 33.5 cm Weight: 1.7 kg Item No.: PO362 A wooden storage box is included with this item.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 13.19 in (33.5 cm)Diameter: 5.12 in (13 cm)
  • Style:
    Other (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Pottery,Glazed
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    12th-14th century
  • Condition:
    Repaired.
  • Seller Location:
    Sammu-shi, JP
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU5487245967602

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