Preliminary identification

Chinese Underglaze Red (Youligong) Landscape Large Bowl

Photo reference

5 uploaded photos

Overview

A substantial porcelain bowl decorated in underglaze copper red (youligong) with a continuous, atmospheric mountain-and-water landscape (shanshui). The exterior features rolling peaks, pavilions, and small boats rendered in a soft, slightly bleeding crimson tone beneath a thick, pale-celadon tinted glaze.

Story

Copper red glaze is notoriously temperamental, often turning grey or brown in the kiln. This bowl represents a late imperial revival of a classic Ming dynasty technique, capturing a serene, timeless landscape that offered an escape from the turbulent political realities of its era.

Maker / Origin

While unsigned, this bowl was crafted in the historic kilns of Jingdezhen, the porcelain capital of China. The artisans working here during the late Qing and Republic periods specialized in reviving difficult historical techniques, keeping ancient imperial traditions alive for a new class of global collectors.

Condition & Value

The bowl shows minor surface wear, firing imperfections (such as tiny pinholes and iron spots in the glaze), and typical wear to the unglazed footrim. No major chips or cracks are immediately visible in the photos, though the rim should be inspected under UV light for hidden repairs. Excellent condition for its age.

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.