Bidspirit auction | Weiyang Guan Dongge Tile Inkstone

Weiyang Guan Dongge Tile Inkstone with Publication - This exceptional inkstone is fashioned from an ancient roof tile sourced from the Dongge (East Pavilion) of the renowned Weiyang Palace, the imperial palace complex of the Han Dynasty. The practice of converting Han and Qin dynasty roof tiles into inkstones has been a celebrated tradition among Chinese literati since the Song Dynasty, valued for the unique density of the ancient clay and its superior ink-grinding qualities. The inkstone retains the characteristic semi-cylindrical form of a roof tile, with a smoothly polished well. The reverse is boldly cast in relief with the characters Weiyang Gong Dongge Wa (Roof Tile of the East Pavilion, Weiyang Palace). The calligraphy reflects the robust and archaic style of Han clerical script. The sides and various sections of the stone are enriched with incised inscriptions and collectors' seals, including a seal attributed to the prominent statesman Zeng Guofan, alongside various epigraphic commentaries. This piece boasts a distinguished provenance, having been a prized possession of the Marquis Ikeda family of Inaba (Tottori), Japan. Historical documentation confirms its inclusion in the 1933 auction held at the Tokyo Bijutsu Club (Marquis Ikeda Family Collection Sale), cataloged as Lot 129. Combining architectural history, fine calligraphy, and prestigious provenance, this inkstone represents a pinnacle of scholar-studio collecting.