Song Dynasty Qingbai-Glazed Openwork Incense Burner with Lion Finial, Phoenix Medallions, Floral Rim, and Beast-Form Supports, Hutian Kiln

拍品描述

Dimensions: Height: 26 cm (10.24 in), Maximum Width: 21.5 cm (8.46 in) | 12th–13th Century | Song Dynasty，Condition & Provenance: Provenance: Private collection, Hong Kong. Acquired through the Hong Kong antique art market and preserved for many years within the same private collection under stable conditions, with limited public exposure and a well-maintained ownership history. Condition: Complete and in excellent preserved condition with no cracks, chips, or restorations. The cover and body remain original to one another, while the lion finial, openwork decoration, beast-form legs, and lobed rim are all intact. The elegant qingbai glaze retains its soft luster, complemented by natural age-related crazing and honest signs of historical use.Description: This impressive incense burner represents one of the finest expressions of Song Dynasty Hutian kiln qingbai ware intended for the scholar's studio or refined interior. The vessel is composed of three visually balanced sections: a sculptural lion-finial cover, an elaborately pierced dome with layered openwork decoration, and a six-lobed vessel supported by three boldly modeled beast legs. Multiple ceramic techniques—including molding, sculptural modeling, carving, and openwork piercing—are masterfully combined into a single harmonious work. At the summit stands a powerfully modeled guardian lion with curled mane and alert posture, creating an elegant focal point. The domed cover is richly pierced with scrolling floral and cloud motifs, allowing fragrant incense smoke to drift gracefully through the openings. Reserved cartouches incorporate molded phoenix designs that symbolize harmony and prosperity. A second band of continuous openwork decoration encircles the lower wall of the cover, demonstrating remarkable technical sophistication. The six-lobed foliate rim is delicately carved with flowing cloud motifs, adding refinement to the overall silhouette. The interior is fully glazed in the characteristic translucent qingbai glaze, providing a functional chamber for incense pellets or charcoal. Below, three sculpted beast-head supports give the vessel both structural stability and visual strength. The exposed foot rims reveal the fine, dense porcelain body associated with Hutian kiln production, accented by natural kiln blushes and age-developed surface deposits. Covered throughout with the kiln's signature pale blue glaze, the vessel displays a luminous, glass-like finish with subtle tonal variations along the raised decoration, emphasizing its sculptural quality. Fine natural crazing developed over centuries further enhances its historical character. Combining symbolism, craftsmanship, and sophisticated ceramic technology, the guardian lion signifies protection and auspicious fortune, while the phoenixes and scrolling floral motifs represent prosperity and harmony. Preserved in outstanding condition, this incense burner is an exceptional large-scale example of Song Dynasty qingbai ceremonial and scholar's wares.

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