Preliminary identification
Photo reference
4 uploaded photos
Overview
This striking cylindrical ceramic vessel features a bold, hand-carved dragon chasing a flaming pearl amidst stylized clouds. It is executed in the classic Cizhou sgraffito technique, where a dark slip is carved away to reveal the lighter clay body beneath.
Story
For over a thousand years, Chinese scholars and elites used cylindrical stands like this to hold their formal court hats or large calligraphy brushes. The dragon depicted here represents power, strength, and good fortune, serving as a daily reminder of imperial ambition.
Maker / Origin
While the original Cizhou wares of the Song Dynasty (960–1279 AD) were made by folk potters in northern China, their bold, graphic style became so beloved that workshops continued reproducing these designs for centuries. This piece represents a later revival of that ancient, expressive folk art tradition.
Condition & Value
There is visible glaze flaking and chipping along the bottom rim and top edge, along with heavy crazing throughout the black glaze. This wear is consistent with age and use, though it does slightly reduce the value compared to a pristine specimen.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
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.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.