Chinese Antiquities

Hand carved bamboo vase/brush pot/bitong. This hand-carved Chinese bamboo bitong or dried flower vase dates from the late Victorian period, circa 1880. The bitong, or brush pot, is...

The dish is decorated to the centre with a moulded appliqué dragon chasing the flaming pearl surrounded by a carved stylised foliage band at the cavetto. The moulded fluted exterior ...

Famous late ming dynasty chinese blue and white porcelain plate, double phoenix, from the shipwrecked binh thuan Period: Ming Dyn...

An attractive GU vase hand painted in cobalt blue with typical kangxi flower panels painting separated by lined borders. Period : Qing Dynasty, Kangxi Period Production Date : 1690-1699 Made in : Jingdezhen Destination : Netherland Found/Acquired : Southeast Asia , South China Sea, Vung Tau ship Size : 14cm (Height) x 8.5cm (Diameter) Condition : Excellent Reference : Double checked with reference to the original catalogues 1) Christies Amsterdam 1992 - Vung Tau Cargo / Christies 2) Qing Dynasty Export Blue and White from Vung Tau Cargo(淸代外销靑花瓷) / Guangxi Fine Art Publishing House 3) Asian Ceramic Found along Maritime Silk Route / National Maritime Museum of Korea * Vung Tau Cargo Porcelain...

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 guardian figure represents a fusion of human and beast, a common motif symbolizing protection in Chinese lore. Crafted from pottery, the figure is a testament to the era's sculp...

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...

This cute square box could have been used as an incense burner, and flowers could have been inserted one by one. Period : Qing Dynasty, Yongzheng Period Production Date : C 1725 Mad...

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...

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...

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...

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....

This pottery has a bulbous body with two small, protruding handles near its widest part. The pottery features horizontal bands of patterns, which include a sequence of geometric shap...

Graceful and simple beauty in the tea set decorated with floral patterns Period : Qing Dynasty, Yongzheng Period Production Date : C 1725 Made in : Jingdezhen Destination : Netherla...

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 ...

Copper base cloisonné Fu Dogs made for Chinese export with gilded, mane, ears and accents. This pair from 1910s or earlier.

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...

It is the rare earthenware among those excavated from the Ca Mau Ship, and it is a green-glaze work that is especially unique. Although it is in very worn condition, it is a valuable...

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...

Superb old Taoist statue in polychrome and gold lacquered wood, representing a Dignitary seated on a throne, armchair. It is carved from solid wood, with hand-painted details and emb...

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 wear on its surface is a testament to its age and underwater journey, giving it a unique patina that only time and nature can create. The overglaze enamel decoration that adorns ...

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...

The painting features a typical Kangxi blue and white style depiction of a female figure. Period : Qing Dynasty, Kangxi reign Production Date : 1690-1699 Made in : Jingdezhen Destination : Amsterdam Found/Acquired : Southeast Asia , South China Sea, Vung Tau Ship Reference : Double checked with reference to the original catalogues 1) Christies Amsterdam 1992 - Vung Tau Cargo...

Very pretty and old tea pot, gourd shaped, in sculpted coconut, chiseled and mounted on pewter. The cap is also made of pewter. The coconut is decorated with imperial motifs. Chinese...

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...

Very beautiful Taoist statue in polychrome and gold lacquered wood. It is carved from solid wood, with hand-painted details and embossed ornaments on the clothing. This Statuette ma...

Cloisonné enamel vase of baluster form and lobed sides decorated with foliage and flowers on a black background, gilt copper neck and base. Around 1900 Period: Qing Dynasty Type: Va...

During Yongzheng era, such miniatures were appreciated for their craftsmanship and aesthetic value. They were also often used in scholars' studios as part of the 'wenfang', or study ...

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...

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...

This statue is a representative piece excavated from the Ca Mau shipwreck and is so rare that there are only a few pieces like it worldwide. It is even featured on the cover of the c...

The jar features a balanced and robust form, typical of the Transitional period, which was a time of significant change and innovation in Chinese porcelain art. The decoration is exu...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

The central floral motif, possibly representing peonies or another culturally significant flora, is surrounded by intricate patterns and border designs typical of the period. Pieces ...

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...

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...

Exquisitely decorated set of plates, dating back to around 1500, from the Hongzhi or Zhengde period. Intricately adorned with a raised, moulded goldfish design. The goldfish, painted in a orange-red enamel, are set amidst water plants depicted in rich cobalt blue. These plates enjoyed widespread popularity, not only in the local markets of China but also overseas in countries. This style of plate played a significant role in the daily life of the Sengoku period in Japan, as evidenced by several similar flat bowls excavated from the Ichijodani Asakura Ruins in Fukui Prefecture, Japan, along with other ceramic artifacts...

The interior painted with two spotted horses at play beneath a willow tree, the exterior with a cafe-au-lait glaze. Tea saucer and teabowl set. Period : Qing Dynasty, Yongzheng Peri...

The serene landscape and leisure activity of fishing are meticulously captured in cobalt blue on the porcelain's white surface, suggesting the value placed on harmony with the natura...

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...

The Kendi is decorated with cobalt blue underglaze depicting flowers and a mythical bird, reflecting the artistic finesse and symbolic expressions of the era. These designs often carry symbolic meanings, with birds sometimes representing immortality or spiritual transcendence in Chinese mythology. The Kendi's form, with a bulbous body and spout for drinking, is a traditional vessel style in Asia, valued for both its functionality and aesthetic appeal. Period : Qing Dynasty, Kangxi Period Production Date : 1690-1699 Made in : Jingdezhen Destination : Netherland Found/Acquired : Southeast Asia , South China Sea, Vung Tau ship Reference : Double checked with reference to the original catalogues 1) Christies Amsterdam 1992 - Vung Tau Cargo / Christies 2) Qing Dynasty Export...

Chinese, 19th century. A Peranakan porcelain or Nyonya ware vase decorated with flowers and a flying bird. Approx: 17.5" H x 4.25" W (vase measur...

An attractive gu vase hand painted in cobalt blue with typical kangxi floral painting. Period : Qing Dynasty, Kangxi Period Production Date : 1690-1699 Made in : Jingdezhen Destination : Netherland Found/Acquired : Southeast Asia , South China Sea, Vung Tau ship Reference : Double checked with reference to the original catalogues 1) Christies Amsterdam 1992 - Vung Tau Cargo / Christies 2) Qing Dynasty Export...

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,...

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...

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of history with our 19th-century Chinese Sewing Box. Hailing from the late 1800s, this exquisite lacquered and gilded wooden box is adorned with...

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...

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...

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 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 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...