Late Qing Dynasty (19th Century) Pair of Celadon-Ground Blue and White “Nine Lions Playing with a Ball” Baluster Vases with Chi Dragon Handles

拍品描述

Dimensions: Each vase is 58.5 cm (23.0 in) high and 19 cm (7.5 in) in diameter. A pair of 19th-century pieces. Condition and Provenance: Well-preserved, found as a pair, with complete bodies and original dragon-shaped handles. The surfaces show natural signs of aging, with slight wear on the glaze and genuine marks of long-term preservation. The base shows naturally aged clay and an old patina. Provenance: Private collection, New York, USA, long held in a private art collection. Description: This pair of late Qing dynasty blue-and-white porcelain vases is a classic columnar shape, each 58.5 cm high and 19 cm in diameter. These vases were popular large decorative porcelain pieces during the late Qing dynasty, often used to decorate elegant halls and traditional wedding settings. The vases are tall and slender, with flared mouths, delicate necks, long bodies, and upturned feet, creating a beautiful and powerful overall silhouette. The necks are adorned with molded dragon-shaped handles; the dragons are coiled, with finely detailed scales and lifelike expressions. The vibrant cobalt blue decorations contrast sharply with the soft celadon ground, creating a refined visual balance. The entire vessel is covered in a delicate celadon glaze, smooth and lustrous. The main decorations are painted with underglaze blue, the cobalt blue hue rich and layered. The central motif depicts nine lions frolicking among clouds and auspicious patterns, symbolizing family prosperity, harmony, and generational happiness. A majestic main lion is surrounded by eight smaller lions in various poses, leaping, spinning, or interacting with an embroidered ball, all vividly portrayed. Details such as manes and claws are meticulously depicted, their movements lifelike and expressive, fully demonstrating the exquisite painting techniques of Qing dynasty decorative porcelain. The surrounding area is decorated with cloud and flame patterns, creating a lively yet balanced composition. The clean celadon glaze on the back further emphasizes the front image. The wide foot rim reveals the naturally aged clay and ancient protective ring, while the inner wall retains the elegant white celadon glaze, bearing the marks of time and use. These columnar vases, part of a "three-hundred-piece set," were traditionally displayed in pairs in grand mansions, serving both decorative and symbolic purposes. The lion motif symbolizes the prosperity and continuation of the family, while the pixiu (a mythical creature) symbolizes protection and good fortune. This exquisite pair of vases combines various techniques, including celadon glaze, underglaze blue enamel, and molded relief, fully showcasing the superb craftsmanship and decorative beauty of late Qing dynasty porcelain.

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