Northern Song Dynasty White-Glazed Carved Offering Reliquary Washer with Taiping Xingguo Inscription (976–984 CE)

拍品描述

Dimensions: Diameter 14.3 cm (5.63 in); Height 4 cm (1.57 in); Northern Song Dynasty, 10th century，Condition & Provenance: The vessel is preserved in excellent overall condition. The white glaze remains smooth and luminous, with natural soil erosion marks and aged surface characteristics around the rim. The original ink inscription on the base remains clearly visible, with the historical writing naturally integrated with the aged surface and earth staining. Provenance: Private Collection, California, USA.Description: This elegant washer features a shallow rounded body with a restrained low profile and a flat base, displaying the refined simplicity of Northern Song ceramic aesthetics. The entire surface is covered with a warm white glaze, creating a soft and luminous appearance. The exterior is decorated with carved scrolling floral motifs, executed with fluent and natural knife work, showing graceful foliage and balanced composition. The unglazed base reveals the fine ceramic body and preserves a complete ink inscription recording the offering of Buddhist relics: “Offering for the Sharira Relics, Taiping Xingguo year, the twenty-second day of the fifth month, donated by male disciple Li Wei with forty coins.” The inscription provides valuable information regarding the date, donor, and religious purpose of the object, while additional incised marks remain visible. The aged ink and surface patination create a rare historical record of Buddhist devotional practice. As a dated Northern Song Buddhist offering vessel, this piece carries exceptional archaeological, historical, and religious significance.

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