Yuan Dynasty Pale Green Glazed Kendi

Yuan Dynasty, c. 1279–1368 AD, Yunnan Province, China

An exceptional and finely potted wheel-thrown kendi of elegant proportions. The vessel features a rounded globular body resting on a gently splayed foot, fitted with a long, tapering straight spout and rising to a flared neck with a subtly protruding rim. It is covered overall with a softly crackled pale greenish-beige glaze applied over a white slip, producing a luminous and refined surface of considerable aesthetic appeal. The base is left unglazed, consistent with Yuan-period ceramic practice.

The term kendi derives from the Malay word originating in the Sanskrit kundika, referring to a ritual pouring vessel. Characteristically, a kendi is defined by its bulbous body, a neck designed for gripping, and a functional spout. Many ceramic examples are thought to have been inspired by earlier metal prototypes. The strong association of kendi with Hindu-Buddhist ritual practice suggests an Indian origin, from which the form spread widely across Southeast Asia.

Kendi have been in use in Southeast Asia for over a millennium, as evidenced by temple reliefs dating to the 9th century CE. Both locally produced earthenware examples and imported glazed wares from China, Japan, Thailand, and Vietnam circulated extensively, reflecting the vibrant international ceramic trade and resulting stylistic exchanges. Beyond their primary function as pouring and drinking vessels, kendi served a variety of purposes: ritual libation vessels in weddings and ceremonial contexts, containers for medicine in miniature form, toys, and even adaptations for water-pipe tobacco smoking influenced by West Asian traditions.

This Yuan Dynasty example stands as a refined and evocative testament to cross-cultural exchange, ritual practice, and the high technical standards of Chinese ceramic production during the Mongol period.

Excellent condition. Light surface wear consistent with age and use, with minor chips on the upper neck and spout. Glazing defects and firing flaws. Size approx. 13,0cm x 17,3cm x 17,5cm.

Provenance: Swedish private collection 

For a similar examples see: 

Vessel (Kendi), The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Accession number: 1986.344 (https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/49921)

Water pouring vessel, Asian Civilisations Museum, Accession number: C-0969 (https://www.roots.gov.sg/Collection-Landing/listing/1089873) 

Kendi, Nantucket Historical Association, Accession number: DBC 10715.1 (https://nha.org/whats-on/exhibition/digital-exhibitions/asian-treasures-from-the-billings-collection/the-exhibition/collecting/collecting-qr2/)