Rare Longquan Celadon Brush Washer / Inkstone with Five Beast Feet, Song Dynasty (12th–13th Century)

拍品描述

Dimensions: Height 6.5 cm (approx. 2.6 in, approx. 0.21 ft), Diameter 15 cm (approx. 5.9 in, approx. 0.49 ft), Song Dynasty, 12th–13th CenturyCondition and Provenance: Good overall condition with natural glaze crazing, subtle earth-toned surface marks, and kiln-fired characteristics consistent with age. Minor signs of natural use are present. From a private collection in New York, USA.Description: This exceptional Song dynasty scholar’s object combines the functions of an inkstone and a brush washer. The piece features a broad shallow basin form with a raised circular inkstone platform at the center and a surrounding water reservoir, demonstrating an ingenious and practical design for the scholar’s desk. The vessel is supported by five sculpted beast feet, each carefully modeled with solid forms, expressive animal faces, and carved claws, creating a stable and dignified appearance. The entire surface is covered with a refined Longquan celadon glaze, displaying a soft blue-green tone with a smooth and luminous texture. Fine natural crazing covers the glaze surface, while subtle traces of age and earth staining enhance its antique character. The rim shows a slightly thinner glaze layer revealing a delicate transition to the ceramic body. The central inkstone surface remains even and well proportioned, while the surrounding water channel is smoothly arranged with consistent glaze coverage. The base retains small brownish firing support marks, reflecting traditional kiln techniques. The rare five-beast-foot design, combined with the elegant Longquan celadon glaze, makes this a remarkable example of Song dynasty scholar’s ware, valued for both its refined craftsmanship and historical significance.

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