69 - (R) A HENAN BLACK-GLAZED VASE WITH SPLASH DECORATION, CHINA , EARLY MING DYNASTY

(R) A HENAN BLACK-GLAZED VASE WITH SPLASH DECORATION, CHINA , EARLY MING DYNASTY Dimensions: Height 19 cm Wide 17 cm Depth 17 cm Weight: 1080 grams A robust ovoid stoneware vase with a short cylindrical neck, covered in a glossy black glaze animated by irregular russet-brown splashes. The lighter iron-rich passages descend from the shoulder in flame-like streaks, breaking the dark surface with spontaneous vertical movement. Toward the lower body the glaze thins and stops above the unglazed foot, exposing the coarse buff clay beneath. Black-and-russet ceramics from northern China developed out of a long tradition in which potters used iron-rich glazes to create dramatic effects with minimal means. The splashed decoration is not painted in the conventional sense; its vitality comes from the way differently composed glazes move and react during firing, making each vessel unique. The vase's broad, uncomplicated body is an ideal support for this kind of decoration. Its visual strength lies in the contrast between the nearly black ground, the warm brown flashes and the earthy body visible below, producing a ceramic surface that feels both controlled and naturally unpredictable. For lots marked with (R), a 19% VAT is added to the combined hammer price and commission. This VAT is waived for: - Private buyers outside the EU who officially export the items.- Businesses inside the EU holding a valid VAT number, exporting to their home country. Proper export documentation is required to waive the VAT