Brunk Auctions
Live Auction

Asian Art Auction

Thu, Apr 28, 2022 09:00AM EDT
Lot 142

Chinese Brown Glazed Porcelain Headrest

Estimate: $200 - $400

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$0 $25
$100 $50
$1,000 $100
$2,000 $200
$3,000 $250
$5,000 $500
$10,000 $1,000
$20,000 $2,000
$50,000 $5,000
$100,000 $10,000

rectangular concave form, molded diapered surfaces, 4-1/4 x 6-5/8 x 4-1/4 in.

Note: "Unlike today?s soft pillows filled with synthetic fiber, down and feather, ancient Chinese pillows were extremely firm, made of wood, stone, copper, or porcelain. During the Sui Dynasty (581-618), porcelain headrests were the most common type of ancient pillows. It became more popular in the Tang Dynasty (618-907) and reached its heyday in the Song Dynasty (960-1279).

Ceramic pillows came to have many functions and uses beyond headrests and home decorations. The fact that they were hollow, combined with their proximity to the owner?s head made them an obvious place to hide one?s most treasured or valuable possessions, particularly when on the road, like in the story. (mideivalists.com)

Porcelain-glazed pillows were a perfect tool for keeping cool in ancient times."

Provenance: Private Collection, Colorado

Condition

surface dirt and accretion, sticker remnants and tape residue, glaze crackle throughout, small chip to one corner