Song Dynasty (12th–13th Century) Qingbai Glazed Child-Shaped Pillow with Applied Floral Decoration

拍品描述

Dimensions: 36.5 cm (14.4 in./0.12 ft) long, 13 cm (5.1 in./0.43 ft) high, 12th-13th century. Condition and Provenance: This porcelain pillow is well-preserved, exhibiting natural aging characteristics in the glaze, including a warm brown patina, soil deposits, and minor wear consistent with long-term use. The porcelain body is intact and the structure is robust. Provenance: Private collection, California, USA; circulated in the European and American antique markets in the late 20th century, and later acquired by a private art collector. Description: This celadon porcelain pillow is shaped like a reclining child, measuring 36.5 cm long and 13 cm high. It is a classic type of ancient Chinese ceramic furniture, combining practicality and decoration. The overall shape depicts a reclining child, head supported by a raised right arm, eyes slightly closed, with a serene and charming expression. The rounded face, soft features, relaxed posture, and natural body proportions capture the child's innocence with striking realism. The child is dressed in a traditional long robe and trousers, the folds of which are meticulously sculpted to fit the body perfectly. The lapels are adorned with exquisite appliqués, including large eight-petaled knots, twisted rope patterns, beaded decorations, and scrolling floral motifs, all rendered with superb three-dimensional craftsmanship. The entire piece is covered in a soft, bluish-white glaze, exhibiting a warm ivory hue and subtle signs of aging, such as brown stains, patina, and dark glaze spots in recesses. The raised decorations reveal subtle variations in glaze thickness, enhancing the porcelain's depth and texture. A porcelain pillow shaped like a reclining child was a popular summer decoration in ancient China, symbolizing numerous offspring, happiness, and family prosperity. This work combines realistic ceramic sculpture with exquisite decoration, representing the artistic achievements of Song Dynasty bluish-white porcelain, and remains an outstanding example of practical ceramic art with significant cultural and collectible value.

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