Song Dynasty Hutian Kiln Qingbai-Glazed Figure of an Immortal Herb-Gathering Boy

拍品描述

Dimensions: Height: 20 cm (7.87 in), Shoulder Width: 6.8 cm (2.68 in) | 12th–13th Century | Song Dynasty，Condition & Provenance: Provenance: Private collection, Hong Kong. Acquired from a respected Hong Kong antique gallery and retained in the current private collection for more than two decades, with very limited public exposure and a well-established collecting history. Condition: Excellent overall condition with no cracks, chips, or restorations. The Qingbai glaze remains well preserved with only light age-related wear and natural surface patination. The applied lotus leaves, lingzhi fungus, facial features, horn-shaped hairstyle, and original firing vent on the reverse remain intact.Description: This elegant Qingbai-glazed porcelain sculpture portrays an immortal herb-gathering boy seated upon a naturalistic rock base, one of the classic figural subjects produced by the Hutian kilns during the Song Dynasty. The composition is exceptionally balanced, with the figure and base molded as one unified work intended for refined scholarly display and devotional appreciation. The smiling child wears a distinctive double-horn hairstyle, with softly rounded cheeks, gently arched brows, and an expressive face that conveys innocence and vitality. Draped over the shoulders is a richly layered cape composed of individually modeled lotus leaves, each carefully detailed with crisp veins and secured at the neckline by a finely sculpted ribbon knot. The robe falls naturally in broad sleeves and graceful folds, while the exposed torso enhances the lively character of the figure. Raised in the right hand is a delicately modeled branch of sacred lingzhi fungus, a traditional emblem of longevity and good fortune, while the left hand is extended in a welcoming gesture. Bare feet emerge naturally beneath the robe and rest upon the integral rock base. A small vent hole on the reverse reflects the traditional kiln-firing technique used to reduce thermal stress during firing. The entire sculpture is covered with the characteristic Qingbai glaze of the Hutian kilns, displaying a luminous pale blue tone with a refined glassy surface. Raised details—including the lotus leaves, lingzhi, drapery, and hairstyle—show thinner glaze that subtly reveals the warm ivory porcelain body beneath, creating a beautiful sense of depth. The exposed foot reveals the fine white body typical of Song Dynasty Jingdezhen production, with naturally aged earthen deposits accumulated over time. Combining molded construction with carefully hand-applied sculptural elements, the figure demonstrates the remarkable craftsmanship of Song Dynasty ceramic artists. Representing blessings of longevity, prosperity, and auspicious fortune, this is an outstanding example of Hutian Qingbai figural porcelain from the Song Dynasty.

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