Lot 2518. Property of a Gentleman. A rare and large Longquan celadon 'twin fish' washer, Southern Song dynasty (1127-1279); 22.3 cm, Japanese wood box. Lot Sold 952,500 HKD (Estimate 700,000 - 900,000 HKD). © Sotheby's 2023

Provenance: Passed down in Japan since medieval times.
A Japanese private collection, acquired in the 1970s.
Collection of the Maeda family, by repute.
Christie's Hong Kong, 27th November 2007, lot 1753.

Note: The twin-fish design, symbolizing marital happiness and good fortune, represents one of the most classic decorative motifs of the Longquan kilns during the Southern Song dynasty. While there are a number of washers of this type, the present piece stands out for its notable size and exceptional glaze quality. Being passed down by hand through the centuries, it remarkably retains its brilliant lustre and satiny glaze texture. Boasting an impressive size of 22.3 cm, the washer is veiled with a luminous glaze of a soft celadon tone reminiscent of the glistening surface of water. Two sprig-moulded rotund fish are thoughtfully applied inside, giving the impression of the fish meandering in a tranquil pond surrounded by upright lotus petals on the outside. This poetic and practical utensil would have delighted the literati scholars of the Southern Song dynasty and will continue to enchant collectors who appreciate the beauty of simplicity and timeless elegance. 

Sotheby's. Karamono: Heirlooms of Chinese Art from Medieval Japan, Hong Kong, 9 October 2023