A Legendary Vessel from the Five Dynasties Period

The inverted ewer (Daozhuang Hu) was widely produced and used during the Five Dynasties and early Song period.
Through the Maritime Silk Road, Yaozhou celadon traveled far beyond China, becoming one of the earliest cultural ambassadors of Chinese ceramics to Persia and the Arab world.

The most famous example—now housed in the Shaanxi History Museum—was identified as dating to the late Five Dynasties period and officially designated in 1996 as a National Grade I cultural relic.

Reproduction Yaozhou celadon inverted ewer inspired by Five Dynasties masterpiece

The Five Dynasties: Innovation at Its Peak

The Five Dynasties period marked a decisive stage of maturity and experimentation for the Yaozhou kiln.

While political instability affected many kilns, the Guanzhong region remained relatively stable.
As the only major celadon-producing kiln under successive central regimes, Yaozhou rapidly advanced its ceramic technology.

As noted by ceramic historian Zhuo Zhenxi, relief carving techniques—incised carving and cut-through carving—became defining features of Yaozhou celadon during this period.

Pierced Carving and Sculptural Relief

This reproduction highlights the cut-through carving (qihua) technique that reached its peak during the Five Dynasties.

• Floral scrolls are deeply carved, layered petal upon petal

• The design creates strong relief and sculptural depth

• Patterns combine tension and softness, strength and elegance

The scrolling peony motif on the vessel’s belly recalls Tang dynasty aesthetics, where floral abundance symbolized prosperity and vitality.

Pierced floral carving and mother-and-cub lion relief detail

Symbolism in Form and Decoration

The vessel’s rounded body is balanced and full.
Upward-facing lotus petals are carved at the base, echoing the jewel-like ornament on the carrying handle.

Together with the celadon glaze, form and decoration reflect the quiet, meditative spirit influenced by Buddhist culture during the Five Dynasties.

Maternal Love and Auspicious Imagery

The carved decoration depicts a vivid mother-and-cub lion scene, symbolizing protection, compassion, and continuity of life.

• The mother lion reclines with raised head

• The cub nestles beneath, nursing

• The scene conveys both power and tenderness

The handle takes the form of a phoenix in flight, with raised head, flowing crest, and layered feathers, symbolizing nobility and renewal.

Because of its elaborate symbolism and sculptural complexity, this vessel is sometimes referred to as the “Three Kings Ewer.”

Phoenix-shaped handle and ingenious inverted pouring structure

Ingenious Inner Structure: Science and Philosophy

The most remarkable feature lies within.

At the base of the vessel is a plum-blossom-shaped opening.
Liquid enters through this hidden channel, yet does not leak when the vessel is set upright.

This design reflects an early understanding of the principle of communicating vessels, demonstrating the advanced scientific knowledge embedded in ceramic art.

The plum blossom shape symbolizes “Five Blessings”—longevity, prosperity, health, virtue, and peaceful fulfillment.

It also embodies a deeper philosophy:
Reversal leads to balance; fullness invites humility.

A Contemporary Tribute to an Ancient Masterpiece

Using traditional Yaozhou kiln techniques, we faithfully recreate this historic form—honoring its craftsmanship, symbolism, and ingenuity.

Product Specifications

• Product Name: Reproduction Celadon Inverted Ewer with Carrying Handle

• Material: Natural mineral ceramic

• Technique: Pierced carving & relief decoration

• Firing: High-temperature celadon firing

• Cultural Reference: Five Dynasties Yaozhou kiln