Lot 83. Two Changsha ewers, Tang Dynasty. The largest 22.5cm (8.7/8in) high. Estimate £1,500 - 2,500 (€1,800 - 3,000). Sold for £ 1,875 (€ 2,144). Photo Bonhams.

With lobed bodies and faceted spouts, the first incised with a stylised bird amongst rockwork, painted in red and brown glazes on an olive glazed ground; the second with ribbed lug handles and moulded twin fish beneath the spout, the body also covered in an olive glaze. 

Provenance: Clive D. Collins Collection and an English Private Collection.

Note: Changsha was an important kiln area situated in South China during the Tang Dynasty. Also called Tongguan Kiln due to its discovery in today's Wazhaping, Tongguan Town, Changsha City in Hunan Province.

Changsha was active by the end of the Tang Dynasty (618-907), peaked from late Tang to Five Dynasties, and declined after Five Dynasties. Its main products were wares with a greyish-green glaze, but all iron based earth colours occur.

Bonhams. ASIAN ART, London, Knightsbridge, 12 May 2014 -http://www.bonhams.com/