A rare Cizhou black glazed conical tea bowl, Song Dynasty (AD960-1279). Estimate HKD42,000 - 55,000 (TWD170,000 - 223,000) (USD5,400 - 7,100).  © Ravenel.

This teabowl has a conical shape reminiscent of a bamboo hat (douli), with a lip that is curving outwards, and a wide belly tapering towards the relatively small round foot. The bowl is covered inside and out with black glaze, a dark hue looking somewhat like black paint. Among Song dynasty teabowls, the douli is easily the most famous and widely recognized design. Simple yet elegant, douli bowls were very much favored by the Song literati class. This particular item features a classic design and an attractive color suggestive of lacquer-ware. MD: 13 cm

PROVENANCE: Old Private Hong Kong Collection

Ravenel Spring Auction 2015 Hong Kong. Literati Sublimation - Oriental Arts for the Chinese Scholars. Tuesday, June 2, 2015, 3:30 PM. Renaissance Hong Kong Harbour View Hotel Boardroom, Mezzanine Floor, 1 Harbour Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong