Lot 27
East Asia, China, Han Dynasty, ca. 206 BCE to 220 CE. This large Han dynasty pottery model of a domestic stove evokes the rhythm of ancient daily life with a bold, architectural presence. Molded in terracotta and covered in traces of green glaze, the piece has been carefully repaired and partially restored, its form and symbolism enduring despite the passage of time. Raised on four short legs, the rectangular body features a prominent cooking platform outfitted with a central cauldron and two smaller bowls, all integrated into the surface. A firebox with a vaulted opening suggests where the flame once symbolically burned, and the hollow spaces beneath the platform lend the piece both depth and realism. Size: 16.5" L x 9.5" W x 12.5" H (41.9 cm x 24.1 cm x 31.8 cm)
At one end, a dramatic chimney rises in the form of a mythological beast - likely a dragon - its elongated neck and open mouth lending the sculpture both character and cosmological weight. Serving as a vent for the spirit of the flame, the chimney also guarded the hearth, its expressive head animated with molded ridges and flared nostrils.
Pottery stoves of this kind were created as mingqi - spirit goods placed in tombs to replicate the domestic infrastructure of the living world. This example, restored yet resonant, offers not only a model of Han culinary practice but a vision of afterlife abundance, where heat, food, and fortune continued their eternal flow under the vigilant eye of a dragon.
Provenance: Collection of Y. Kayvan, Los Angeles, California, USA, acquired from a Los Angeles, California, USA gallery acquisition dates range from the late 1990s to 2005
All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.
We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.
SHIPPING EXCEPTIONS: Due to customs clearance issues, we are unable to ship to Germany, Switzerland and Australia. If you live in Germany, Switzerland or Australia, you will need to provide an alternate shipping destination, or we will not be able to complete your purchase. In addition, please note that we are unable to ship ancient items back to the original country of origin (Egyptian to Egypt, Greek to Greece, etc.)
PAYMENT EXCEPTION: Unless a known customer of Artemis, payment for all gold / precious metal / gem lots must be made via Bank Wire Transfer or Certified Bank Check/Money Order, no exceptions.
#195065
- Condition: Professionally repaired and restored with break lines and reinforcement visible in some areas. Surface wear as shown with some chipping as shown, all commensurate with age. Otherwise, nice presentation with good remaining pigments and light earthen deposits.
Accepted Forms of Payment:
American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa
Shipping
Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense
Artemis Fine Arts
You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 25% and any applicable taxes and shipping.
View full terms and conditions
| From: | To: | Increments: |
|---|---|---|
| $0 | $299 | $25 |
| $300 | $999 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $1,999 | $100 |
| $2,000 | $4,999 | $250 |
| $5,000 | $9,999 | $500 |
| $10,000 | $19,999 | $1,000 |
| $20,000 | $49,999 | $2,500 |
| $50,000 | $99,999 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $199,999 | $10,000 |
| $200,000 + | $20,000 |