Ming Dynasty Fahua‑Glazed Drum‑Shaped Garden Stool With Raised Lion‑and‑Ball Relief

拍品描述

Dimensions：H.34cm，W.25cm（H.1.115ft，W.0.820ft） Condition & Provenance：This drum‑form stool remains structurally whole. Minor glaze nicks and wear spots appear on some raised stud bosses, age‑related fine crazing visible around upper rim, no large chips or breaks. Three‑dimensional lion relief and beast‑head side lugs remain intact. Old dust and soil staining present on interior wall. Thick multi‑toned fahua glazes carry natural aged patina accumulated over centuries. No modern restoration or chemical cleaning, only tiny glaze losses accrued from historical handling. From private collection of E·M, Princeton, New Jersey, USA. The collector specialized in Ming fahua wares. Acquired from long‑standing Princeton Asian art dealer in 1998, kept within two‑generation family collection, stored in climate‑controlled storage, never offered at public auction and never lent for museum exhibitions. Description：This substantial drum‑shaped garden stool was produced at northern Shanxi kilns during Ming dynasty. Modelled after traditional leather drum, it narrows toward top and bottom with full bulging mid‑body, fitted with paired projecting beast‑head lugs on two sides. Rows of raised circular studs coated in deep dark blue glaze run along upper and lower rims, several studs show surface wear. Top and bottom zones are covered in turquoise fahua glaze, adorned with moulded floating cloud patterns above and stylized ocean wave motifs below. Central main field sits upon deep cobalt‑blue ground, decorated in high relief with lively lions chasing silk‑wrapped ball. Powerful lions feature meticulously sculpted manes, muscle definition and sharp claws, swirling ribbons flow gracefully around central ball. Multiple fahua enamel colours including aubergine‑purple, mustard‑yellow and turquoise‑blue create bold colour contrast. Top surface features central moulded rosette surrounded by scrolling lotus leaves against dark blue background with crisp outlined foliage. Interior reveals coarse white body clay with obvious ancient rim‑wear. Fahua represents low‑temperature lead glaze technique requiring complicated moulding, carving and glazing procedures. Large intact fahua garden stools from Ming period are quite uncommon, combining sculpture and glazed decoration, it perfectly reflects the bold, opulent aesthetic of northern Ming ceramic art.

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