Antiquities

ITEM: Head MATERIAL: Marble CULTURE: Greek, Hellenistic period PERIOD: 3rd – 1st Century B.C DIMENSIONS: 55 mm x 47 mm x 47 mm CONDITION: Good condition. Includes stand PROVENANCE: E...

ITEM: Statuette of a Fat Lady MATERIAL: Pottery CULTURE: Chinese, Tang Dynasty PERIOD: 618 – 907 A.D DIMENSIONS: 655 mm x 265 mm x 210 mm CONDITION: Good condition. Includes Thermoluminescence test by Laboratory Kotalla (Reference 05B101123). Includes Certificate of Authenticity from Dutch gallery PROVENANCE: Ex Belgian private collection, acquired from Dutch art gallery Comes with Certificate of Authenticity and Export Licence. If you are from outside the European Union, we will have to apply for the export licence again for your country, this takes 4 to 6 weeks. Due to the fragility and size of this piece, it can only be shipped within the European Union, United Kingdom and neighbouring countries that can be transported by road by private courier (door to door). This beautifully-finished ceramic attendant was made during what many consider to be China’s Golden Age, the Tang Dynasty. It was at this point that China’s outstanding technological and aesthetic achievements opened to external influences, resulting in the introduction of numerous new forms of self-expression, coupled with internal innovation and considerable social freedom. The Tang dynasty also saw the birth of the printed novel, significant musical and theatrical heritage and many of China’s best- known painters and artists. The Tang Dynasty was created on the 18th of June, 618 AD, when the Li family seized power from the last crumbling remnants of the preceding Sui Dynasty. This political and regal regime was long-lived, and lasted for almost 300 years. The imperial aspirations of the preceding periods and early Tang leaders led to unprecedented wealth, resulting in considerable socioeconomic stability, the development of trade networks and vast urbanisation for China’s exploding population (estimated at around 50 million people in the 8th century AD). The Tang rulers took cues from earlier periods, maintaining many of their administrative structures and systems intact. Even when dynastic and governmental institutions withdrew from management of the empire towards the end of the period – their authority undermined by localised rebellions and regional governors known as jiedushi –the systems were so well- established that they continued to operate regardless. The artworks created during this era are among China’s greatest cultural achievements. It was the greatest age for Chinese poetry and painting, and sculpture also developed (although there was a notable decline in Buddhist sculptures following repression of the faith by pro-Taoism administrations later in the regime). It is disarming to note that the eventual decline of imperial power, followed by the official end of the dynasty on the 4th of June 907, hardly affected the great artistic turnover. During the Tang Dynasty, restrictions were placed on the number of objects that could be included in tombs, an amount determined by an individual’s social rank. In spite of the limitations, a striking variety of tomb furnishings – known as mingqi – have been excavated. Entire retinues of ceramic figures – representing warriors, animals, entertainers, musicians, guardians and every other necessary category of assistant – were buried with the dead in order to provide for the afterlife. Warriors (lokapala) were put in place to defend the dead, while horses/ camels were provided for transport, and officials to run his estate in the hereafter. Of all the various types of mingqi, however, there are none more elegant or charming than the sculptures of sophisticated female courtiers, known – rather unfairly – as “fat ladies...

Ancient Luristan bronze sword with green patina. Luristan bronze comes from the province of Lorestan, a region of nowadays Western Iran in the Zagros Mountains. With its rich and lo...

ITEM: Statuette of a Fat Lady MATERIAL: Pottery CULTURE: Chinese, Tang Dynasty PERIOD: 618 – 907 A.D DIMENSIONS: 645 mm x 260 mm x 180 mm CONDITION: Good condition. Includes Thermoluminescence test by Laboratory Kotalla (Reference 04B101123). Includes Certificate of Authenticity from Dutch gallery PROVENANCE: Ex Belgian private collection, acquired from Dutch art gallery Comes with Certificate of Authenticity and Export Licence. If you are from outside the European Union, we will have to apply for the export licence again for your country, this takes 4 to 6 weeks. Due to the fragility and size of this piece, it can only be shipped within the European Union, United Kingdom and neighbouring countries that can be transported by road by private courier (door to door). This beautifully-finished ceramic attendant was made during what many consider to be China’s Golden Age, the Tang Dynasty. It was at this point that China’s outstanding technological and aesthetic achievements opened to external influences, resulting in the introduction of numerous new forms of self-expression, coupled with internal innovation and considerable social freedom. The Tang dynasty also saw the birth of the printed novel, significant musical and theatrical heritage and many of China’s best- known painters and artists. The Tang Dynasty was created on the 18th of June, 618 AD, when the Li family seized power from the last crumbling remnants of the preceding Sui Dynasty. This political and regal regime was long-lived, and lasted for almost 300 years. The imperial aspirations of the preceding periods and early Tang leaders led to unprecedented wealth, resulting in considerable socioeconomic stability, the development of trade networks and vast urbanisation for China’s exploding population (estimated at around 50 million people in the 8th century AD). The Tang rulers took cues from earlier periods, maintaining many of their administrative structures and systems intact. Even when dynastic and governmental institutions withdrew from management of the empire towards the end of the period – their authority undermined by localised rebellions and regional governors known as jiedushi –the systems were so well- established that they continued to operate regardless. The artworks created during this era are among China’s greatest cultural achievements. It was the greatest age for Chinese poetry and painting, and sculpture also developed (although there was a notable decline in Buddhist sculptures following repression of the faith by pro-Taoism administrations later in the regime). It is disarming to note that the eventual decline of imperial power, followed by the official end of the dynasty on the 4th of June 907, hardly affected the great artistic turnover. During the Tang Dynasty, restrictions were placed on the number of objects that could be included in tombs, an amount determined by an individual’s social rank. In spite of the limitations, a striking variety of tomb furnishings – known as mingqi – have been excavated. Entire retinues of ceramic figures – representing warriors, animals, entertainers, musicians, guardians and every other necessary category of assistant – were buried with the dead in order to provide for the afterlife. Warriors (lokapala) were put in place to defend the dead, while horses/ camels were provided for transport, and officials to run his estate in the hereafter. Of all the various types of mingqi, however, there are none more elegant or charming than the sculptures of sophisticated female courtiers, known – rather unfairly – as “fat ladies...

Elephant howdah or seat/saddle painted and gilded with spindle seat gallery and splay legs, likely Thai. Dimensions: 29"H x 24"W x 42"D.

Antique Chinese pottery standing cow. Age: China, Tang Dynasty, A.D. 618 - 907 Size: Length 16 C.M. / Width 6.7 C.M. / Height 11.3 C.M. Conditio...

The crane, a traditional symbol of longevity and auspiciousness, is prominently placed at the center, creating a harmonious and aesthetically balanced effect. The border of the dish ...

Italian Majolica Mandarin Colorfully painted depicting a young Mandarin seated upon a cushion, formerly mounted as a lamp. Height 26 in., Width 12 in., Depth 14 in.

Flying two heavenly beings depicted in the stone. They are celestial beings called an Apsara. While having the same fragment and shape, another work I uploaded exhibits small dots on...

This is a doll which we use for Hinamatsuri day. This person is one of Sannin Kanjo which is called Sanpo. This person has a flower . This doll was made with plastic, cotton, silk , ...

Antique Khmer pottery jar. Age: Cambodia, Pre-Angkor Period, 6th - 7th Century Size: Height 28.4 C.M. / Width 35 C.M. Condition: Nice and condition overall (some expected degradatio...

Han Dynasty green-glazed tripods are comparatively rare, especially ones that have retained their structural integrity and glaze over millennia. Pieces in good condition are scarce b...

Antique Chinese pottery Hu jar decorated with bands of raised lines and a pair of monster masks on the shoulder. Age: China, Han Dynasty, 206 B....

The Boshan incense burner is particularly notable among Han dynasty incense burners for its unique shape. Designed to resemble a mountain or even a mythical mountain, it is characterized by its pointed peaks that rise upwards. These peaks often function as vents for the smoke, creating an effect reminiscent of a volcanic eruption. The body of the incense burner is typically round, with multiple small peaks surrounding a central, larger peak. The material used is mainly ceramic, although there are instances where they were made of bronze. It is presumed that this incense burner was used for religious or ceremonial purposes during its time. The colors of these burners are usually in shades of pale green or greyish brown, with the application of glaze to achieve a variety of colors on occasion. Such incense burners are often found in tombs or ritual sites, and their purpose was to burn incense for purification of space or to produce pleasant aromas. The Boshan incense burner also represents a significant cultural heritage, showcasing the craftsmanship and artistic values of the period. Today, it is considered a quintessential example of ancient Chinese art. Period : Han-Jin Dynasty Type : Incense Burner Medium : Yue celadon...

The table bearing pig head, rice cakes, dishes of meat, fish and fruit. Known as Mingqi, these terracotta models were customarily included in Chinese burial practices, particularly among the affluent, to aid the deceased in their journey through the afterlife. This tradition extends back to the Neolithic Period. A unique terracotta funeral table...

Antique Chinese pottery brick tile with musician flute player. Age: China, Song Dynasty, 10th - 12th Century Size of brick tile only: Height 27 C.M. / Width 16.2 C.M. Height includi...

The form of Longquan celadon vases from the Northern Song dynasty evolved from an early design with a long neck and tapering body to a later ovoid body with a shorter neck. Over time, the glaze developed a more olive tone, and the carved decorations became more pronounced and intricate. Examples of such vases include one without a cover dated to the Yuanfeng era (1078~1085) and documented in literature, and another similar vase without loop handles preserved by the Qingyuan County Cultural Relics Bureau. An earlier example featuring loop handles and a lotus-like cover is also mentioned in historical texts. The use of Longquan covered vases, especially as funerary jars for offerings like wine and grains, was highlighted by an inscription on a piece from the Sir Percival David Collection, London. This inscription wishes for the vessel to preserve fragrant wine for centuries, blessing the owner with prosperity, longevity, and a vast lineage, dated to the third year of the Yuanfeng period (1080). This practice was common in the regions of Southern Zhejiang and Northern Fujian. A similar celadon vase from the Linyushanren collection was auctioned at Christie’s Hong Kong, emphasizing the cultural and historical significance of these artifacts. Period : Five Dynasties or Northern Song Dynasty Type : Celadon, Zhejiang province Medium : Celadon Size : 31.5 cm(Height) x 11.5(Diameter) Provenance : Acquired in late 1990s from Hongkong Reference : 1) The British Museum image id - 01613270570 2) Christies New York 23–24 MAR 2023 - Important Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art - Lot 1012 (Price Range : USD 18,000 – USD 25,000 / Type : Related) 3) National Gallery of Victoria - Accession Number - AS5-1973 * Celadon from Five Dynasties (907~960) to the early Northern Song Dynasty (960~1127) The period from the Five Dynasties (907~960) to the early Northern Song Dynasty (960~1127) marked a significant transitional phase in the development of Chinese celadon ceramics...

Antique Chinese pottery Hu jar decorated with bands of raised lines and a pair of monster masks on the shoulder. Age: China, Han Dynasty, 206 B....

Tibetan Traveling Prayer Shrine Gau. A large antique Tibetan Buddha shrine or prayer box (also known as Gau) which would encases a Buddha figure...

Ancient Luristan bronze sword with nice patina. Luristan bronze comes from the province of Lorestan, a region of nowadays Western Iran in the Zagros Mountains. With its rich and lon...

This antique Chinese silver tea caddy is an exquisite piece of art that is sure to add a touch of elegance to any collection. The intricate...

The vase is raised on a slightly splayed foot and flanked on the tall cylindrical neck by a pair of mask handles. The body is molded with lotus scroll pattern between a floral scroll...

Thickly potted with an ovoid body of five horizontal lobes tapering toward the top, carries both aesthetic and practical values. The jar is intricately carved with rows of upright lo...

This is a small stand made of old Japanese concrete. This shape is called "Makidai" and it got its name from the fact that its legs curl inward. "Maki" = roll "Dai" = stand This des...

Potted with the fluted sides rising from a recessed base, carved to the interior with Chrysanthemum, covered overall with a grayish-green glaze, save for a ring to the underside left...

Antique Khmer bronze bowl with nice patina. Age: Cambodia, Angkor Vat period, 12th Century Size: Diameter 11.4 C.M. / Height 6.3 C.M. Condition: Nice condition overall (some expecte...

Ancient Luristan bronze spear with excellent green patina. Luristan bronze comes from the province of Lorestan, a region of nowadays Western Iran in the Zagros Mountains. With its r...

This censer is characterized by its tripod form, which means it stands on three feet. Incense burners from the Ming dynasty are often highly regarded for their craftsmanship and the quality of the glaze texture and coloration. This piece features finely carved patterns that likely draw inspiration from traditional Chinese motifs. Such items were commonly used for burning incense and sometimes served as significant decorative pieces in ceremonial spaces or the homes of the elite. Period: Ming Dynasty (1368~1644) Region: Longquan, China Medium: Stoneware - Celadon glazed Type: Tripod censer Size : 24.2 cm(Diameter) , 10.8cm(Height) Provenance : Acquired in 1999, Hongkong Reference : Sotheby's Newyork 26 September 2023 - CHINA / 5000 YEARS - Lot1135 * Ming Dynasty Longquan Celadon Longquan celadon from the Ming Dynasty typically exhibits a more robust and heavier stoneware body compared to its Song Dynasty predecessors. The Ming era saw an evolution in celadon glaze, achieving a wider spectrum of green hues, from olive to bluish-greens. Ming celadons...

The artwork, with its foliage and floral motifs, suggests a connection to the natural world—a common theme in Vietnamese art. Such items were highly traded, and their recovery from shipwrecks helps us understand the extent of maritime commerce in Southeast Asia during the 15th and 16th centuries. This piece embodies the craftsmanship and aesthetic values of the period, providing insights into the cultural and economic contexts of its time. Dates : 15th century Le Dynasty Region : North Annam Type : Bowl Found/Acquired : Southeast Asia , South China Sea, Hoi An Ship Reference : Double checked with reference to the original catalogue Butterfield Treasures Hoi An Hoard Auction Catalogs / San Francisco Butterfields 2000 * Vietnamese trade ceramics Around the mid-14th century, Vietnam developed its ceramics production technology by producing blue and white porcelain, and began to export it overseas. During this period, China Ming Dynasty implemented a policy of lifting the ban from 1371 to 1657 and restricted foreign trade. This served as a good opportunity in the trade history of Vietnamese ceramics...

This small ewer is an exquisite example of Qingbai ware, known for its pale blue-tinged glaze. The vessel showcases the advanced ceramic techniques and artistic sophistication of the...

Ancient Luristan bronze sword with nice patina. Luristan bronze comes from the province of Lorestan, a region of nowadays Western Iran in the ...

JAPANESE BLUE AND WHITE DECORATED PORCELAIN PLATE, MEIJI PERIOD (1868-1912) the underside with impressed signature, with a tightly scalloped edge, border of stylized motifs, the cen...

Archaic Jade knife with relief carving of beast. Probably 20th Century.

Since ancient times, people have created and inherited necessary tools from familiar materials to survive in the severe struggle against nature, and have nurtured a lifestyle culture...

Beautiful single hand made calligraphy brush with exception turquoise marble beads ,bone , ferrule and horse hair. Slight variation in each bead due to characteristics of genuine s...

A similar jar with a cover, part of the Avery Brundage collection at the Asian Art Museum in San Francisco, is featured in Mary Tregear's "Song Ceramics" (London, 1982, plate 286). T...

If you are looking for something special, we recommend buying items selected by BROOD. We sell a carefully selected range of old Japanese items. We have seen tens of thousands of ite...

The figure stands with arms crossed in front, a pose that is often seen in tomb figurines which were intended to serve the deceased in the afterlife. The long robe and facial feature...

Beautiful single hand made calligraphy brush with exceptional wine color marble beads ,bone , ferrule and horse hair. Slight variation in each bead due to characteristics of genuin...

Beautiful single hand made calligraphy brush with exceptional asian red color coral beads ,bone , ferrule and horse hair. Slight variation in each bead due to characteristics of ge...

The jar is of globular shape and is decorated to the body with a geometric design band of lozenge-shaped motifs in blue, green, ochre and cream below a plain ochre everted mouth rim,...

This Han Dynasty green-glazed dish exhibits significant signs of wear, indicative of its age and the long passage of time it has witnessed. The glaze, once vibrant, now shows substan...

The globular body is supported on three claw feet and is covered in a splashed-glaze of amber, green and cream color, which stops short of the unglazed base. Date : Tang Dynasty(61...

The octagonal lobed ovoid body rising from a short spreading foot to a tall trumpet neck, set at the shoulder with a tall curved spout and to the other side with a tall strap handle, the dished cover surmounted with a ruyi-shaped finial, covered overall in a creamy-white glaze. Compared to other similar types of Northern Song Dynasty ceramics, this piece is extremely elegant in shape. It most closely resembles the Qingbai porcelain in the collection of The Museum of Oriental Ceramics in Osaka. Period : Northern Song dynasty(960~1127) Type : Creamy-white glaze Ewer Provenance : Acquired in 1999, Hongkong Reference : THE MET Accession Number: 18.57.1 Sotheby's London 2018 - St George Street Sale Asian Art - Lot 208 * Song Dynasty Ding-Yao Ware Song Dynasty Ding Yao porcelain holds a significant place in Chinese ceramic art, specifically as a type of white porcelain produced during the Song Dynasty. Produced predominantly during the mid to late Song Dynasty, Ding Yao ceramics are renowned for their delicate and intricate features. Ding Yao ceramics were primarily crafted from clay rich in white minerals and fired at high temperatures to achieve a durable and lustrous surface. One distinctive characteristic of this serene white ceramic is the presence of silver or gold-colored splashes of glaze, often created using a mineral called galena. Galena, with its lustrous appearance, was suitable for creating fine patterns and intricate decorations. These ceramics frequently feature delicate carvings, floral motifs, or subtle decorations. While commonly used for utilitarian purposes such as tableware, Ding Yao porcelain also served as a medium for artistic expression, producing many artworks. The production of Ding Yao ceramics was relatively limited, and surviving pieces are considered rare and valuable art pieces...

The bowl's design features fluid, dynamic brushstrokes typical of Annamese pottery, where cobalt blue underglaze was used to create intricate patterns before a clear glaze was applied. The artwork, with its foliage and floral motifs, suggests a connection to the natural world—a common theme in Vietnamese art. Such items were highly traded, and their recovery from shipwrecks helps us understand the extent of maritime commerce in Southeast Asia during the 15th and 16th centuries. This piece embodies the craftsmanship and aesthetic values of the period, providing insights into the cultural and economic contexts of its time. Dates : 15th century Le Dynasty Region : North Annam Type : Dish Found/Acquired : Southeast Asia , South China Sea, Hoi An Ship Diameter : 17cm Reference : Double checked with reference to the original catalogue Butterfield Treasures Hoi An Hoard Auction Catalogs / San Francisco Butterfields 2000 * Vietnamese trade ceramics Around the mid-14th century, Vietnam developed its ceramics production technology by producing blue and white porcelain, and began to export it overseas. During this period, China Ming Dynasty implemented a policy of lifting the ban from 1371 to 1657 and restricted foreign trade. This served as a good opportunity in the trade history of Vietnamese ceramics, and ceramic exports...

We are delighted to offer for sale this lovely original circa 1900-1920 Chinese Mah-jong set which is totally complete with original counters The condition is very good for the age, I can’t fault it, naturally the case has patina marks Dimensions Height:- 14cm Width:- 27cm Depth:- 17.5cm Please note all measurements are taken at the widest point. This item is available for collection from our Pulborough warehouses RH20 1DF. We are privately owned family ran business founded in Wimbledon SW19 and now based in Pulborough RH20. We specialise in finding, restoring very fine luxury antique leather seating, along with every single other type of antique ranging from the 16th century to the 20th century. We also stock a number of designer brands such as Fritz Hansen, Ralph Lauren, Cavalli, Charles & Ray Eames, Vitra, David Linley, Rolex, Tiffany, Jager Le Coulter...

This piece has a flared neck and a globular body, typical of the forms seen in Cizhou ware. The body is decorated with freely drawn floral motifs and abstract patterns, which may inc...

Antique Chinese painted pottery torso of court lady, with original pigments remaining. Age: China, Tang Dynasty, A.D. 618 - 907 Size of torso only: Height 12.5 C.M. / Width 4.7 C.M....

A pair of antique Chinese pottery standing cow. Age: China, Tang Dynasty, A.D. 618 - 907 Size: Length 15.8 - 16 C.M. / Width 6.5 - 6.7 C.M. / Height 10.5 - 10.8 C.M. Condition: Well...

The pillow is intricately decorated with a vibrant pattern, demonstrating the craftsmanship and artistic sensibilities of the period. The Haitai is a creature from Chinese mythology,...

Antique Sukhothai ceramic covered bowl. Age: Thailand, Sukhothai Period, 14th - 16th Century Size: Height 10 C.M. / Width 12 C.M. Condition: Nice glaze and condition overall, a tiny...

Antique Chinese painted pottery torso of court lady, with original pigments remaining. Age: China, Tang Dynasty, A.D. 618 - 907 Size of torso only: Height 12.4 C.M. / Width 4.4 C.M....

The lamp shaped as a kneeling female figure wearing long robes, her face with a large nose, deep-set eyes and pronounced cheeks, holding an infant in her lap, her cylindrical and elo...

Rare gourd-shaped basket (hyotan) in smoked bamboo (suzudake) used in the traditional Japanese art of flower arranging (ikebana), attached to a support made of twisted branches. Fine...

Finely potted with incurved facetted sides divided by raised ribs and set with two short lugs to the shoulder, the body rising to a short octagonal neck, the domed cover of conforming section, surrounded by an upturned rim and surmounted by a bud finial, applied overall with a celadon glaze of the period. A related vase of this rare and charming form, in the Zhenjiang Museum, Zhenjiang, is illustrated in the Complete Collection of Chinese Ceramics. Song, vol. 8, Shanghai, 1999, pl. 52. Vases of related octagonal shape were produced at the Ding kilns, in Hebei province, and the qingbai kilns in Jiangxi province; see a Ding vase in the Palace Museum, Beijing, illustrated in Selection of Ding Ware. The Palace Museum’s Collection and Archaeological Excavation, Beijing, 2002, pl. 37; and a qingbai example, from the Meiyintang collection, illustrated in Regina Krahl, Chinese Ceramics from the Meiyintang Collection, vol. 3 (II), London, 2006, pl. 1590; and another carved with a floral scroll, included in the exhibition Song Ceramics from the Kwan Collection, Hong Kong Museum of Art, Hong Kong, 1994, cat. no. 105. Period : Western Jin Dynasty (266 - 316 AD) Type : Octagonal Vase Medium : Yue celadon...

Very old tricycle with wooden horse made in Japan. It is from the Meiji period (1860s-1900s). It is made of iron, cedar wood, straw, and paper. In Japan at that time, only a few wea...

Crafted from fine clay, the pillow's surface boasts a sophisticated carved design featuring a floral motif that is both symmetrical and organic. The interplay of the earthy tones and...

A Tang Dynasty stoneware box from the Belitung shipwreck, featuring embossed patterns on its lid. Stoneware boxes from the Tang Dynasty, like the one recovered from the Belitung ship...