This is a fine example of Shichikan celadon in which the functional beauty of an incense burner and the elegance of its sculptural form are seamlessly united. While the lion retains an air of dignity, a playful sense of humor emerges in the carved expression and the curling mane. The celadon glaze exhibits an ideally balanced pale asagi hue, accompanied by delicate crackle patterns, revealing the full refinement of the techniques lavishly employed at the time.
Inquiry
- Product Code
- 251007-10
- Period
- Ming Dynasty
16th - 17th Century
- Weight
- 792 g
- Width×Depth
- 12.5×9.1 cm
- Height
- 15.5 cm
- Fittings
- Antique Box (Paulownia Box)
- Condition
- Intact
It fulfills the essential qualities of a fine piece, with its vivid celadon color and superb firing.
Shichikan Celadon
Shichikan celadon refers to a type of celadon ware fired at the Longquan kilns from the mid-Ming to early Qing dynasty. The name is traditionally believed to derive from Chinese officials of the seventh rank (shichikan) who are said to have introduced these wares to Japan. Favored by literati, Shichikan Celadon is characterized by small-scale vessels such as incense burners, incense containers, flower vases, and scholarly desk objects. Its glaze—an elegant greenish-blue with remarkable clarity and gloss—recalls the luminous depth of bidoro (vidro) glass. In contrast to Kinuta and Tenryūji celadon, which tend to show minimal surface crackle, Shichikan celadon often exhibit bold and expressive crazing (fine crackle patterns in the glaze), lending a rich visual texture that quietly animates the surface. Within its tranquil presence lies a subtle yet vivid expression of poetic beauty.