Tang Dynasty (618–907), Xing Ware White-Glazed Four-Lug Strap Vase, “Ying” Mark Dimensions: Height 17 cm (6.69 in / 0.56 ft); 7th–10th Century

拍品描述

Overall in good condition, with the form intact and the four applied strap lugs preserved. The white glaze retains a soft, warm luster, with natural firing characteristics, scattered light-brown accretions, and surface wear consistent with age. Minor wear is visible around the rim and other raised areas, including the applied lugs. Provenance: Private collection, Hong Kong, by family descent.Description: This finely proportioned white-glazed vase is characteristic of the refined ceramic tradition associated with the Xing kilns of northern China during the Tang dynasty. The vessel is strongly yet elegantly potted, with a widely flared dish-shaped mouth, tall cylindrical neck, rounded shoulders, full ovoid body, and a low foot. Its balanced proportions combine the substantial physical presence favored during the Tang period with the remarkable restraint of undecorated white porcelain. Four applied pierced lugs are arranged symmetrically on the body, with an upper pair positioned near the shoulder and a lower pair closer to the foot. Designed to accommodate cords or straps, these functional fittings give the vessel its distinctive “strap vase” form while introducing a strong architectural rhythm to an otherwise exceptionally restrained silhouette. The vessel is covered in a warm ivory-white glaze with a smooth, softly lustrous surface. With no painted, carved, or molded ornament competing for attention, the aesthetic effect depends entirely on the purity of the glaze, the quality of the ceramic body, and the disciplined proportions of the form. Subtle brown accretions and traces of age around the shoulder and applied lugs provide a natural visual contrast to the pale glaze. Xing ware represents one of the great achievements of Tang-dynasty ceramic production and played a defining role in establishing the northern Chinese tradition of high-quality white wares. Together with the celadons of the Yue kilns in southern China, Xing white ware gave rise to the celebrated historical contrast often described as “green in the south and white in the north.” The finest Xing wares were admired for their clean body, luminous white glaze, and exceptionally controlled potting. Particularly significant within this tradition are vessels bearing the character “Ying,” a mark closely associated in scholarship with high-status Tang white wares and discussions of ceramics supplied for elite and court consumption. Combining a distinctive four-lug strap construction, an elegant full-bodied profile, a restrained white glaze, and the “Ying” mark, this vase represents a particularly compelling type within the tradition of Tang-dynasty northern white ceramics.Auction Reference: Tang-dynasty Xing white wares bearing the “Ying” mark occupy a distinctive position within the market for early Chinese ceramics.

图片