A Song/meiping/cizhou ware/sgraffiato style vase, 17.5 inches tall, 8 inches across at its widest point. The vase is in very good overall condition with some ware to the glaze (mainly in or near the cut areas) and some browning (mainly in the cut areas). There are a 2 or 3 chips/ding marks in the body of the vase (see photos).
17.5" x 8"
Hello,
This item is a Song Dynasty-style vase, standing at 17.5 inches tall with an 8-inch diameter at its widest point. The piece is executed in the Meiping or Cizhou ware tradition, featuring a sgraffito design. This technique involves incising a design into the slip, revealing a contrasting layer beneath, a hallmark of Song ceramic artistry that flourished between the 10th and 13th centuries in China. While this vase is likely a more contemporary interpretation or inspired reproduction, the style and craftsmanship pay homage to this historical period.
During the Song Dynasty, ceramics represented the apex of Chinese cultural refinement. Meiping vases, often used for storing wine or flowers, were characterized by their elegant, curved forms. Cizhou ware, meanwhile, was more functional yet featured intricate designs, blending utility with beauty. This particular piece, with its black and white floral motifs, reflects the influence of these traditional practices, appreciated for their balance and visual harmony.
Based on market trends and the vase’s condition—some wear to the glaze, browning near the incised areas, and a few chips or dings—its estimated market value ranges between $250 and $400 USD. While not an authentic artifact from the Song period, its decorative appeal and historical connection make it a desirable collectible.