Northern Song Dynasty Yaozhou Kiln Celadon Carved Deer Design Six-Lobed Flower-Shaped Dish (11th–12th Century)

拍品描述

Dimensions & Weight: Diameter 20 cm, height 4.5 cm (approx. 7.9 in diameter and 1.8 in high; approx. 0.7 ft diameter and 0.15 ft high), Northern Song Dynasty (11th–12th Century)，Condition & Provenance: The dish remains in good overall condition, preserving its elegant form, smooth celadon glaze, natural kiln variations, and subtle age-related surface patina. The foot remains unglazed, revealing a strong ceramic body with natural firing characteristics and aged surface traces. Provenance: Private Collection, Hong Kong，Description: This elegant dish represents the refined craftsmanship of the Yaozhou kiln, one of the most important northern Chinese celadon centers of the Song dynasty. The dish is formed with a graceful six-lobed flower-shaped rim, a shallow curved body, and a balanced silhouette that reflects the understated elegance of Song ceramics. It is covered entirely in an olive-green celadon glaze with a soft, jade-like appearance and a calm, restrained shine. The interior is decorated using the famous Yaozhou carved decoration technique, featuring a central reclining deer surrounded by flowing floral scrolls. The deer is depicted with a rounded and peaceful posture, accented with delicate cloud-like patterns, while surrounding peony blossoms and scrolling foliage create a dynamic yet harmonious composition. The carving is precise and confident, with clear variations in depth that create a strong sense of movement and texture. The deer symbolizes prosperity and good fortune, while peonies represent wealth and honor, making this a classic auspicious theme in Song dynasty decorative art. The exterior is also carved with simple floral motifs, creating a unified design between the inside and outside surfaces. The neatly finished foot reveals the natural ceramic body with warm firing tones and aged traces accumulated over centuries. Known for the saying “every cut reveals the clay,” Yaozhou carved decoration is celebrated for its sharp, expressive knife work. This exceptional dish demonstrates the bold carving style, elegant composition, and artistic refinement that define the finest examples of Song dynasty northern celadon.

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