This jar is thinly potted with a bulbous, white porcelaneous body, and a cylindrical neck rising from a splayed foot. Four scrolled handles are applied on the shoulder. The outside is covered in a transparent glaze whereas the inside and base in unglazed. Originally with a cover.
These jars are rather common in published collections, and they have been found in various excavations. They come in slightly different shapes and were probably produced by many kilns in different provinces, including Jiangxi and Anhui. They are mostly dated to 11th-12th century and were possibly used for storing food or tea.
Period: Song dynasty (960-1279), probably late 11th century.
Size: Height 13.6 cm
Condition: Very good condition, wear and minor firing impurities, no visible cracks or repairs.
Provenance: From a private British collection
SKU: 87
References: A similar jar was excavated from the tomb of Wu Zhengchen (dated to 1087) in Anhui. It is illustrated in Complete Collection of Ceramic Art unearthed in China - Anhui, Zhang Bai, Science Press, Bejing, 2008, Plate 101.
See also jar excavated in Xinjian, Jiangxi, illustrated in Complete Collection of Ceramic Art unearthed in China - Jiangxi, Zhang Bai, Science Press, Bejing, 2008, Plate 39.
There was a similar jar in the Kai-Yin Lo Collection illustrated in Bright as Silver White as Snow – Chinese White Ceramics from Late Tang to Yuan Dynasty, Yungmingtang, 1998, plate 32.
Several comparable jars have also been sold by the major auction houses. One of similar shape was sold by Sothebys New York in 2018
More info: Qingbai ware
