GJPaw Auctions is pleased to offer a superb Chinese porcelain Tang-style Chicken-Head Ewer with stylized phoenix handle. As an art form, only ceramics cover the entire forty-five century span of Chinese history. More than any other material, fired clay has served the needs and satisfied the aesthetic tastes of all segments of Chinese society, and the Chinese contribution to ceramic art is one of uncontested brilliance. Indeed, in terms of their sheer production, technical innovation, artistic refinement, aesthetic diversity and global impact, the Chinese can claim the world's longest and foremost ceramic tradition. The origin of ceramics technology dates back 6000 years to the Neolithic period in China, and the related technologies and skills were continuously developed throughout Chinese history. Over the course of many dynasties, ceramic techniques slowly evolved. Innovations with under glazes, colors, materials including metallic ores, all propelled Chinese ceramics into a highly prized commodity for the imperial courts throughout China, and ultimately, for export. The so-called 'Heavenly Chicken Ewers' with their mock spouts, which can either be solid, or hollow but without connection to the inside, or with a tiny, non-functional pierced opening, were made as tomb wares, symbolized items the deceased person would need in the afterlife. In Chinese the word for chicken is homophonous with the term “auspicious”, and they were believed to have the power to exorcise evils, cure diseases and have other beneficent effects. This superb highly stylized ewer measures 4.5 inches in diameter by 7.25 inches in height (11.4 cm by 18.4 cm). It is in very good condition, including very minor rubbing and superficial scratches. It dates probably to the mid-20th century. A superb example of a very distinctive style of early Chinese ceramic art, it would make a fine collector’s piece and is guaranteed authentic.

GJPaw Auctions has been in the Art business for over 25 years and is now expanding its operation to eBay.  Our goal is to bring the same experience and excitement of collecting that we have been delivering in-person to collectors across the globe at Primitive in Chicago. Every object we sell online has been carefully hand-selected with special attention to detail, quality, and significance. We ship worldwide. Add GJPaw to Sellers you Follow and please take a moment to look at our other auction items.