Qing Dynasty Chinese Ge-Type Cong Vase, 18C #5296

- height: approx. 24.1cm (9 1⁄2in)

- width (mouth): approx. 7.0cm (2 3⁄4in)

- width (body): approx. 9.5cm (3 3⁄4in)

- weight: 1757g

This piece is a ceramic vessel in the style of Ge ware from the Qing dynasty, modeled after the ancient Chinese ritual jade form known as "cong." It features a square columnar body with repeated raised elements along each edge, creating a rhythmic and sculptural aesthetic. The surface is coated with a pale glaze showcasing a dense network of crackles (crazing), which appear as fine brown lines against the soft ivory background, a hallmark of classic Ge ware. These crackles, developed naturally over time, add depth and nuance to the vessel’s surface, suggesting both age and refinement. The glaze is delicately applied, leaving the rim and base unglazed to reveal the reddish-brown ceramic body—an intentional design choice rooted in traditional Qing kiln techniques. The condition of the piece is excellent, with no visible chips or cracks, and the crackle glaze is well preserved. This work exemplifies the Qing dynasty's reverence for earlier Song and Yuan ceramics, reflecting both scholarly taste and technical mastery. As a decorative object and a collectible artifact, it stands as a significant example of the cultural and historical appreciation for classical Chinese ceramic forms during the Qing era.