The present cup is a rare example of the fine high-fired white wares produced during the Sui dynasty, distinguished by its refined clay body and thin, translucent glaze suffused with an attractive crackle. Vessels of this type represent an important stage in the development of northern white wares and embody the pursuit of purity and elegance that would culminate in the celebrated porcelains of the Tang dynasty.
Closely related examples are known, including a comparable cup in the collection of the Xi'an Institute of Cultural Relics Preservation, illustrated in Complete Collection of Ceramic Art Unearthed in China, Vol. 15: Shaanxi, Beijing, 2008, p. 14, no. 14. Similar cups of larger size have also appeared on the market, including an example measuring 12.1 cm in diameter sold at Sotheby's New York, 21 September 2022, lot 321, and another from the Annenberg Jaffe Hall Collection, measuring 12.2 cm in diameter, sold at Christie's New York, 24 March 2023, lot 1001. Compare also a related example sold at Christie's Hong Kong, 30 October 2025, lot 1019.
The result of thermoluminescence test (no. HZX6829) is consistent with the dating of this lot.
7.8cm high; 8.8cm diameter
Estimate $50,000 - $80,000
A few minute restored chips to the mouth rim, the largest measuring approximately 2 x 1 cm.; otherwise in overall good condition.
The opinions expressed in the condition reports are a guide only and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Prospective buyers are encouraged to seek further information or request additional images during our pre-sale period where Leonard Joel staff are available for advice. Please note condition reports can be amended during the pre-sale period, so we strongly suggest any interested bidders check the published condition report available on the website before the auction commences. Leonard Joel makes no guarantee of the originality of mechanical or applied components. Absence of reference to such modifications does not imply that a lot is free from modifications.
A private collection, Japan.
Important Chinese & Asian Art
AUCTION
Sale: LJ8825
11:00am - 25 October 2026
Hawthorn
VIEWING
Thurs 22 - Sat 24 October, 11am - 5pm
2 Oxley Rd, Hawthorn VIC
CONTACT
Luke Guan
luke.guan@leonardjoel.com.au
SIMILAR ITEMS
Lot 14
A VERY RARE PAIR OF CHINESE FAMILLE ROSE AND GRISAILLE-DECORATED 'LANDSCAPE' STOOLS, YONGZHENG PERIOD (1723 - 1735)
Estimate: $100,000-200,000
Lot 134
AN EXTREMELY RARE CHINESE HUSHAN WARE OVOID PHOSPHATIC EWER, TANG DYNASTY, 8TH/9TH CENTURY
Estimate: $50,000-70,000
Lot 178
A CHINESE ARCHAIC BRONZE RITUAL VESSEL, ZUN, LATE SHANG/EARLY WESTERN ZHOU DYNASTY, 12TH-10TH CENTURY BCE
Estimate: $50,000-70,000
Lot 182
A RARE CHINESE YELLOW JADE OX, LATE SHANG DYNASTY, CIRCA 1250 - 1046.
Estimate: $40,000-60,000