Lot 1026. A very rare miniature Ding ewer, Tang dynasty (AD 618-907); 3 5⁄8 in. (9.2 cm.) high, hardwood stand and cloth box. Estimate USD 8,000 – USD 12,000. Price realised USD 32,760. © Christie's 2022

The ewer with a globular body is raised on a splayed foot, and has a pinched rim and a strap handle and is covered overall with a creamy white glaze. 

Provenance: The J. M. Hu (1911-1995), Zande Lou Collection.

Literature: Helen D. Ling and Edward T. Chow, Collection of Chinese Ceramics from the Pavilion of Ephemeral Attainment, vol. I, Hong Kong, 1950, no. 4.

Note: A Ding ewer dating to the Tang dynasty of larger size (38.65 cm.) with phoenix-head-form cover, but with similar pinched spout and a strap handle, from Jianci village, Quyang county, is illustrated in Complete Collection of Ceramics Art Unearthed in China – 3 – Hebei, Beijing, 2008, no. 34.

Christie's. Important Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art, New York, 25 march 2022