Song Dynasty Longquan Kiln Celadon Octagonal Vase with Tube Handles

This guanyin vase follows the official Song dynasty style. It features an octagonal shape with a straight mouth, two decorative bands on the neck, and symmetrical tubular handles on both sides. The body tapers downward in an eight-ribbed melon form, while the foot ring is also octagonal. The overall silhouette is dignified and upright, with strong, elegant lines. Covered entirely in Longquan pale green glaze, the piece exhibits a warm, even color with a smooth, refined surface. The thick glaze layer offers a subtle, soft luster, capturing the jade-like quality characteristic of Longquan celadon. Guanyin vases are classic ceremonial vessels from the Song dynasty, originally used for court "pitch-pot" games before evolving into scholarly desk ornaments. They remain among the most prestigious forms produced by the Longquan kiln. The octagonal design was exceptionally difficult to fire and shape, resulting in few surviving examples. This intact piece, with its pure glaze color, represents a fine example of Song dynasty Longquan celadon and holds significant collectible value.