Vase with carved decoration, Hutian, Northern Song dynasty (960 - 1127)

Molded vase with carved decoration covered with a luminous bluish-white glaze (Qingbai) that ends before reaching the base and concentrates in the hollows of the decoration. This is divided into three bands: the one closest to the base has a line of leaves, the widest or central one has flowers and curled leaves represented, the last one has spiral leaves.

The shape of this piece first appeared in the Tang dynasty, although it was more popular in the Song and Liao dynasties. It was commonly known as a "plum bottle" (梅瓶) because the shape resembles the outline of plum pits. The base is narrower and widens to reach the shoulders, these are high and hold a narrow cylindrical mouth which is on a short neck.

The piece is in perfect condition with no breaks. 

Height: 20 cm; Diameter of base: 6.10 cm; Weight: 409 g

Provenance: 

Private collection Turkey, Meltem Karabeyoglu.

Dr. Meltem Karabeyoglu is a Turkish born entrepreneur, author, philanthropist, lecturer and collector who is acknowledged for her deep and multi -dimensional knowledge and continuous presence in iraq over two decades. Dr. Karabeyoglu is the president of Karabeyoglu family enterprises, active in petroleum, mining and defence industries.