Song Dynasty Cizhou Ware Figure of a Seated Boy and Carp
Song Dynasty Cizhou Ware Figure of a Seated Boy and Carp
Couldn't load pickup availability
Song or Jin Dynasty, c. 907–1125 AD, Hebei Province, China
A finely potted small-scale Cizhou ware figure depicting a seated boy dressed in softly flowing robes, tenderly holding a large carp or koi across his lap. The child embraces the fish with both hands, gently wrapping his arms around its neck while pressing his head affectionately to one side, creating an intimate and lively composition that conveys warmth and charm.
The figure is covered in a lustrous white glaze with fine crackle, stopping well above the foot to reveal the buff-coloured body beneath. The facial features of both the boy and the fish, as well as the hems of the boy’s garments, are delicately articulated in black pigment, providing crisp contrast and enlivening the overall form.
Figures of boys with fish are a popular and enduring motif in Chinese art, symbolising prosperity, abundance, and good fortune. The fish (yú) is a visual pun for surplus and alpha wealth, while the carp or koi also carries associations of perseverance and transformation, recalling the legend of the carp that leaps the Dragon Gate to become a dragon. The boy represents youth, growth, and continuity, together forming an auspicious image associated with success, fertility, and happiness.
This charming Cizhou ware figure exemplifies the expressive naturalism and symbolic richness characteristic of northern Chinese ceramic sculpture during the Song and Jin dynasties.
Excellent condition. Light surface wear consistent with age and use, with minor chips on the base. Glazing defects and firing flaws. Size approx. 7,4cm x 5,8cm x 4,1cm.
Provenance: Finnish private collection
-
Shipping
The shipment will be prepared in the course of 3-5 days and dispatched via Posti Group Oyj or purchased item(s) can be picked up from our shop during the store's opening hours (Tarkk’ampujankatu 4, 00140, Helsinki, Finland). Within the Finland, all items are shipped via Posti Group Oyj unless otherwise requested. We pack the items carefully and mainly in recycled materials because we want to save nature. You will receive the tracking number for your items by e-mail.
-
Returns
Returns and exchange will be accepted within fourteen days (14) of receipt at the purchaser’s cost to include freight and packaging. Items must be returned in the same condition as when they were shipped, and will not be accepted if damaged or altered in any way. Please inform us via email (info@gotanmaailma.fi) or by calling +358408408352 before sending. We do not accept returns more than 14 days after delivery.