453 - YAOZHOU CELADON EWER WITH CARVED FLORAL DECORATION, SONG DYNASTY

YAOZHOU CELADON EWER WITH CARVED FLORAL DECORATION, SONG DYNASTY Dimensions: Height 19,8 cm Wide 15 cm Depth 15 cm Weight: 959 grams A celadon-glazed stoneware ewer with a rounded body, cylindrical neck, curved spout and tall strap handle. The exterior is carved with broad scrolling floral motifs, their outlines emphasised by the olive-green glaze gathering in the recesses. Incised bands articulate the shoulder and handle, while the short foot gives the vessel a compact, balanced stance. The Yaozhou kilns of northern China were celebrated during the Song dynasty for their finely carved celadons. Potters exploited the translucent glaze to deepen the appearance of incised and moulded decoration, producing a subtle interplay of light and shadow without relying on strong painted colour. The ewer's appeal lies in the relationship between its functional elements and the flowing carved ornament. The softly pooled glaze accentuates the floral design and brings a quiet richness to an otherwise restrained form.