Lot 112. A Longquan celadon ribbed tripod incense burner, Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279); 5.4cm high. (3). Sold for HK$140,800 (Est: $30 000 HKD - $50 000 HKD) © Bonhams 2001-2023

Finely potted in a cylindrical form, the exterior encircled by six evenly spaced raised ribs, supported on three slightly splayed feet and rising to a straight mouth rim, covered overall in a pale bluish-green glaze with the exception of the flat base to reveal the beige biscuit, two Japanese wood boxes. 

Provenance: Collection of the Kounoike Family, no. 16
Formerly in the collection of a Tokyo Art Club member.

Note: This type of incense burner originates from archaic bronze prototypes lian from the Han dynasty and often decorated with bow-strings around the body. The delicate size of the present lot is designated for the literati's taste as the 'Four Arts of Life' - incense burning, tea brewing, flower arrangement and painting appreciation - which became a long pursuit in the Song dynasty.

Bonhams. SUBTLE BEAUTY THE AESTHETICS OF SONG DYNASTY, 29 November 2023, Hong Kong, Admiralty