Song Dynasty Brown-Glazed Miniature Stoneware House
Song Dynasty Brown-Glazed Miniature Stoneware House
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Southern Song Dynasty, 1127–1275 AD, China
An absolutely fascinating and exceedingly rare miniature stoneware house or granary, charmingly modeled in the whimsical form of a vegetable—possibly an eggplant. Coarsely hand-built with a flat base and four vertical ridges along the sides, the vessel features a boldly carved doorway and a small window on opposing walls, evoking the architecture of rustic dwellings. The top is surmounted by a stylized stem, completing its organic form.
The surface is coated in a rich brownish-black glaze that envelops the exterior, leaving the underside and base unglazed. Miniature models such as this one were often placed in tombs as symbolic offerings, representing sustenance and shelter for the afterlife. Its imaginative design and rustic charm perfectly capture the spirit of Southern Song craftsmanship—an artistry that balanced playful naturalism with deep cultural symbolism.
Good condition. Intact. Minor surface wear and abrasions consistent with age. Attractive encrusted patina and rich earthen deposits across the surface. Glazing flaws and fritting. Size approx. 4,9cm x 5,0cm x 5,2cm. Old label at the bottom "Song Gallery - Chinese Art".
Provenance: Danish private collection
References and further reading:
Song to Yuan dynasties 960–1350, National Palace Museum, Taipei.(https://www.npm.edu.tw/exh99/ceramics/en/page-3.html#main)
The Enchantment of Song, Ying Jang & Annika Waenerberg, 2002, Academia.(https://www.academia.edu/10582197/The_Enchantment_of_Song)
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Shipping
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Returns
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