Early Vietnamese Blue & White Octagonal Covered Box, Lê Dynasty, Probably 15th–16th Century

A charming early Vietnamese blue and white stoneware covered box, probably dating to the Lê dynasty, 15th–16th century, and likely around circa 1500–1550.

Of compact octagonal form, the box is decorated in underglaze cobalt blue beneath a soft creamy-grey glaze. The faceted sides are freely painted with alternating stylised vegetal scrolls and geometric motifs, while the cover is decorated with a central floral or foliate medallion surrounded by a petal-form border.

The slightly muted cobalt, warm greyish stoneware body, freely executed decoration and characteristic glaze are consistent with Vietnamese blue-and-white ceramics produced during the flourishing ceramic industry of the 15th and 16th centuries.

Vietnamese blue-and-white ceramics of this period were produced for both domestic use and export throughout Southeast Asia and beyond. Small covered boxes of related form and decoration are known among Vietnamese wares from late 15th- and early 16th-century contexts.

The underside has a recessed circular base revealing the pale stoneware body, while the interior retains its warm cream-coloured glaze. The surfaces show age-related glaze crackle, firing irregularities and wear consistent with an early hand-made ceramic object.

Origin: Vietnam

Period: Lê Dynasty

Date: Probably 15th–16th century, circa 1500–1550

Material: Stoneware

Decoration: Underglaze cobalt blue

Form: Octagonal covered box

Width: Approx. 7cm

Height: Approx. 4.5cm

Weight: Approx. 167g

Condition: Good antique condition overall, with age-related surface wear, glaze crazing/crackle, firing imperfections, minor staining and marks consistent with age and use. Please examine all photographs carefully as they form an important part of the description.

An attractive surviving example of early Vietnamese blue-and-white ware and a highly collectable small object from one of the most important periods of Vietnamese ceramic production.

About CKB LTD.

CKB LTD. was formed in 2010 and operates as an independent dealer, with a focus on carefully selected works offered through private sale and online platforms.

The company emphasizes informed attribution, clear descriptions, and responsible market practice. Objects are evaluated through visual examination, comparative research, and reference to established art-historical frameworks, with attention to condition, authenticity, and context.

CKB LTD. works with private collectors, dealers, and international buyers, and conducts transactions in accordance with standard international art market conventions. Each item is offered as a collectible work of art, with transparency regarding condition and attribution, and with respect for the nature of historical objects.

Condition, Attribution & Authenticity Notice

This work is offered as an antique object based on visual examination and comparative stylistic analysis. All statements regarding age, origin, attribution, and period represent informed scholarly opinion and are not guarantees of absolute fact.

Condition descriptions are based on external observation only. The interior, underside of the base, and any internal cavities or consecration materials have not been examined. No technical analysis (including XRF, thermoluminescence, or metallurgical testing) has been performed.

As is typical with antique bronzes, minor casting irregularities, surface wear, rubbing to high points, oxidation, and age-related imperfections are present and should be expected. No visible repairs or restorations are observed from the available views; however, the absence of hidden restorations cannot be guaranteed.

All items are sold as is, and prospective buyers are encouraged to examine the photographs carefully and request additional information prior to purchase. By bidding or purchasing, the buyer acknowledges acceptance of the item?s condition and the nature of antique works.

International Buyers ? Important Information

This item is an antique work of art over 100 years old and is sold as a collectible object. Buyers are responsible for any import duties, VAT, GST, customs fees, or local taxes imposed by their country.

The seller does not provide CITES documentation, export permits, or cultural property certificates unless explicitly stated. Please verify import requirements with your local customs authority prior to purchase.

All shipments are professionally packed and fully insured. Title and risk pass to the buyer upon shipment.

This work is offered in accordance with standard international art market practices.