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Near Pair of Monumental Chinese Ge-Ware Style Vases, 20th Century

$5,350per set
£4,110.21per set
€4,722.58per set
CA$7,525.44per set
A$8,454.49per set
CHF 4,417.49per set
MX$103,191.03per set
NOK 56,089.16per set
SEK 52,796.13per set
DKK 35,241.66per set

About the Item

A dramatic and finely executed near pair of monumentally scaled 20th C. Chinese porcelain vases, masterfully crafted in homage to the celebrated Ge ware ceramics of the Song dynasty. Each vase stands an impressive 21 inches high with a full-bodied diameter of 13 inches, a size that far exceeds traditional Ge ware examples—underscoring the ambition and technical virtuosity of their 20th-century makers. The vases are of classic baluster form with generous globular bodies and elongated, cylindrical necks, covered overall in a pale bluish celadon glaze. A richly complex network of controlled crackle (or ge glaze)—formed through the intentional cooling and contraction of the glaze—spreads across the surface in dark and light veins. This web-like pattern is a key visual signature of Ge-type ceramics and a hallmark of connoisseurship in Chinese porcelain. The crackle is further accentuated by subtle tonal modulations in the glaze and warm iron-brown wash at the mouth and foot rims. One vase bears a two-character Chinese mark to the base; both rest on unglazed footrings, with five spur marks from kiln supports—a traditional detail of Chinese high-fired ceramics. Manufacturing Process – Ge Ware Technique: The Ge ware tradition, thought to originate in the Southern Song period (1127–1279), is famed for its double crackle glaze, achieved by layering glazes with differing shrinkage rates. As the vessel cools, the top layer fractures in response to the underlying glaze, resulting in a beautifully reticulated surface. In the 20th century, this labor-intensive and exacting process was revived by master ceramicists, requiring precise firing temperatures and glaze composition to replicate the layered, spontaneous network of cracks. These examples reflect that legacy, with deliberate patterning and impressive control over such a technically difficult finish—especially at this large scale. Dimensions: Each approx. 21 in. high x 13 in. diameter Condition: One in good condition, free of structural issues. The other in fair condition, with a 1" glaze flake below a 0.5" flake to the midsection and radiating hairlines visible in detail photos. Provenance: The Laura Pels Collection, River House, NYC This pair comes from the distinguished collection of Laura Pels, the renowned Broadway philanthropist and arts patron, long associated with the Roundabout Theatre Company in New York. Known for her discerning eye and patronage of the performing arts, Pels maintained a celebrated residence in River House, one of Manhattan’s most storied prewar cooperatives, favored by diplomats and cultural elites. The presence of these vases in her interiors reflects her appreciation for refined, historically resonant objects of beauty and gravitas. With their commanding scale, technical sophistication, and elevated provenance, these vases offer a rare opportunity to acquire a pair of sculptural Ge-style ceramics that bridge dynastic influence with modern artistic revival.
  • Similar to:
    Liu Yucen (Workshop/Studio)
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 21 in (53.34 cm)Diameter: 13 in (33.02 cm)
  • Sold As:
    Set of 2
  • Style:
    Chinese Export (In the Style Of)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1950's
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses. Minor structural damages.
  • Seller Location:
    Morristown, NJ
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU5990245687102

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