Description

This monumental vase, known as “Auspicious Wealth” (Jixiang Baicai), is a masterwork of Longquan Ge kiln artistry. Its form is inspired by the natural shape of a cabbage, as the Chinese word for cabbage phonetically echoes “hundreds of wealth”, symbolizing prosperity and abundance. The vase embodies this auspicious meaning, making it a classic expression of Chinese traditional luck and cultural symbolism in ceramic art.

The vase presents an elegantly simple yet striking silhouette. Its body is modeled in a melon-ribbed form, the ridges flowing organically like cabbage leaves gently wrapping inward. The flared mouth resembles a blossoming leaf, while the neck is adorned with paired chi-dragon handles (螭龙耳), each head slightly raised in a dynamic, vigorous line, adding both dignity and practical grip. The sturdy circular foot grounds the form, achieving a harmonious balance. The vase’s outline is continuous and fluid, blending vitality with composure, and robustness with refinement, reflecting the Song dynasty ideal of “simplicity and elegance” (尚简崇雅).

Crafted from a precious iron body, the vessel is solid and resonant; when tapped, it emits a clear, enduring tone. The exterior is coated in fenqing glaze, a soft grayish-blue with subtle translucence. Fired in the traditional reduction method, the glaze evokes the quiet clarity of a sky after rain. The surface features a natural crackle network, enhanced by human artistry: black lines bold and iron-like, gold lines fine and silky, interlacing across the glaze in a unique and captivating pattern. This technique of “beauty in crackle” results from the interplay of kiln temperature, glaze composition, and careful finishing, ensuring that no two pieces are alike.

The cabbage motif has deep roots in Chinese folk art dating back to the Ming and Qing periods. The layered, overlapping leaves symbolize gradual accumulation of wealth, while their outward flourish signifies thriving endeavors. This vase not only exemplifies the technical mastery of Song-era Ge kiln porcelain, but also embodies centuries of auspicious symbolism. The combination of its purple mouth, iron foot, and golden crackle network highlights the pinnacle of traditional ceramic craftsmanship.

As both a cultural emblem and collector’s masterpiece, this “Auspicious Wealth” vase commands attention in any setting. Its monumental form, layered symbolism, and unique crackle glaze make it ideal for display in scholarly halls, galleries, or high-end collections. Beyond its visual and tactile beauty, the vase conveys prosperity, abundance, and refinement, merging ancient Ge kiln techniques with timeless cultural meaning. It serves as a conversation centerpiece, a decorative focal point, and a treasured heirloom, perfectly embodying the fusion of heritage, artistry, and contemporary appreciation. For collectors, connoisseurs, and cultural enthusiasts, it represents one of the finest exemplars of Longquan Ge kiln porcelain in modern times.