Brûle-parfum en porcelaine céladon Longquan Chine, dynastie Song (960-1279)

reposant sur trois petits pieds, la panse bombée rehaussée de trois fines arêtes en relief, le col droit terminé par une bordure plate accueillant un couvercle en argent finement ajouré de motifs géométriques, boîte japonaise en bois (4)

Acquired in 1939 in Japan.

The censer in very good overall condition with a burst air bubble near one foot, a 1cm glaze fault to the shoulder and another burst air bubble to the shoulder as well.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The form of the present censer derives from an archaic bronze vessel form known as li. With the revival of archaic bronze shapes in the Song Dynasty, this form was adapted into the repertoire of the Song potter. Its simple lines were enhanced by the unctuous celadon glaze, and censers of this shape from the Longquan kilns were particularly sought after in Japan where until this day they are an integral part of the Japanese tea ceremony. Compare similar examples illustrated, for instance, in Yutaka Mino and K. Tsiang, Ice and Green Clouds: Traditions of Chinese Celadon, Indianapolis, 1986, p. 196, no. 79, and John Ayers, The Baur Collection: Chinese Ceramics, vol. I, Geneva, 1972, no. A99.