Bidspirit auction | Song Ding Ware String-Pattern Censer

Song Ding Ware String-Pattern Censer - This censer takes a cylindrical form with straight, slightly tapering sides and a flat rim, supported by three robust animal-mask feet with simplified yet vivid modeling. The exterior is encircled by multiple raised horizontal fillets arranged in neat parallel bands, introducing a rhythmic elegance to the otherwise plain surface. The entire vessel is covered in a warm ivory-white glaze, characteristic of Ding ware, with a smooth, lustrous surface of moderate vitreous quality and occasional pinprick bubbles. The unglazed foot tips reveal a fine, compact, buff-colored clay body with traces of kiln-support firing. The censer is fitted with a hardwood cover of domed form, pierced with ruyi cloud motifs and surmounted by a bud-shaped finial secured with a metal collar. It rests on a matching hardwood stand with three feet that align precisely with the ceramic feet below. The deep, somber tone of the wood cover and stand provides a striking contrast to the white porcelain body, enhancing the piece's archaic refinement. The overall form is dignified and restrained, with the harmonious combination of ribbed decoration and animal-mask feet exemplifying the understated sophistication of Ding white porcelain.