Lot 68
  • 68

A ’LONGQUAN‘ CELADON 'TWIN FISH' SMALL DISH SOUTHERN SONG DYNASTY

Estimate
10,000 - 15,000 USD
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Description

  • ceramic
the rounded sides rising from a recessed base to a broad flat rim, the interior applied with a pair of sprig-molded scaly fish swimming in opposite directions, the exterior carved with lotus petals radiating from the foot, covered overall in a bluish-green glaze

Condition

There are three chips to the footrim, and light polishing all over.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Catalogue Note

Dishes of this popular 'twin-fish' design were made from the Southern Song period to the Yuan dynasty. Because fish are reputed to swim in pairs and are known for their reproductive power, the double fish can symbolize the joys of union and numerous offspring.

See a dish of slightly larger size, but with the same design included in the exhibition, Heaven and Earth Seen Within. Song Ceramics from the Robert Barron Collection, New Orleans Museum of Art, New Orleans, 2000, cat. no. 60; and another from the Meiyintang Collection illustrated in Regina Krahl, Chinese Ceramics from the Meiyintang Collection, London, vol. 1, 1994, no. 559.