919 - Longquan celadon-glazed water vessel “Water Pot”

Longquan celadon-glazed water vessel “Water Pot” China, probably Ming Dynasty or later. Ceramic, with a thick celadon glaze and beautiful craquelure. H. 5.8 cm, D. approx. 10 cm. Reddish-brown, unglazed base ring. Very well preserved, with signs of age. -Provenance: Private collection in northern Germany. Water pots were part of the standard equipment on a scholar’s desk. These were usually small, rounded vessels used to hold a precise amount of water for preparing ink. Scholars used them when grinding ink, to regulate the flow of water in calligraphy and painting, and when carving seals. Longquan celadon refers to green-glazed stoneware produced in Longquan and the surrounding kilns in Zhejiang from the Northern Song Dynasty through the Ming Dynasty. These pieces are known for their jade-like glaze, thick body, and elegant, often understated forms. Key characteristics include: a green glaze ranging from bluish-green to olive tones; Thick, viscous layers of glaze, sometimes applied in multiple coats. Iron-rich slip beneath the glaze, which lends depth to the color. A reddish-brown, unglazed footring.