Antique Chinese Yixing Zisha Teapot Toad Finial Archaistic Decoration Qianlong Seal Mark – Late Qing C.1850–1900

A highly unusual and characterful Chinese Yixing-type zisha stoneware teapot and cover, conservatively attributed to the late Qing dynasty, circa 1880.

Made from finely textured reddish-brown unglazed stoneware, the substantial cylindrical body is decorated with archaistic scrolling motifs, combining pale contrasting slip with extensive hand-punched/stippled detailing. The shaped spout and loop handle complement the strongly sculptural appearance.

The fitted domed cover is surmounted by a wonderfully modelled crouching toad/frog finial, with prominent circular eyes, facial features and folded limbs. The teapot’s vent is cleverly incorporated through the side of the animal. The surrounding cover continues the archaistic decoration found on the body.

Marks: Of particular interest are two separate impressed seals. The underside of the teapot carries a large square archaistic seal-script (zhuanshu) mark, while a second smaller oval personal/workshop seal is impressed beneath the cover beside the vent.

The square mark has characteristics associated with Qianlong-style reign marks encountered on Chinese Yixing wares. Genuine Qianlong-period Yixing vessels bearing reign marks are documented; however, historical reign marks were also used on later archaistic wares. We therefore do not claim this teapot to be Qianlong period, and conservatively describe the impression as a Qianlong-style/archaistic seal mark.

The smaller oval mark beneath the cover appears to represent a potter’s, personal or workshop seal. It is highly stylised and has deliberately not been attributed to a named maker without documentary confirmation. The combination of a principal base seal and a secondary seal beneath the cover is consistent with established Yixing marking practice.

Dating: Features supporting an older attribution include the traditional single-aperture spout construction, individually worked decoration, mineral-rich appearance of the clay, multiple impressed seals and considerable differential surface wear.

The protected underside and interior of the cover retain noticeably cleaner reddish-brown surfaces, while exposed areas of the body, cover and toad show substantially greater rubbing and loss to the pale decoration. This uneven wear is consistent with prolonged handling and use.

Although an earlier date cannot be completely excluded without specialist physical examination, we consider late Qing, approximately c.1850–1900, the most appropriate conservative attribution and have used circa 1880 for the listing.

Condition: Displays genuine age-related surface wear, rubbing and losses to the pale decoration, together with minor marks and firing irregularities. There is a fine hairline crack to the upper shoulder/rim beside the cover, clearly photographed. It does not appear visually to correspond with an obvious open crack through the interior wall. No obvious restoration has been identified. The piece has deliberately not been aggressively cleaned.

Dimensions: approximately 17 cm handle to spout × 10 cm wide × 9 cm high to the top of the finial.

Weight: approximately 395 g.

Origin: China

Material: Yixing-type / zisha unglazed stoneware

Period: Late Qing dynasty

Date: c.1880

Marks: Square archaistic/Qianlong-style seal to base and separate oval seal beneath cover.

Price estimates in the region of £450- £395, but we are offer this lower to sell.

A particularly interesting antique Chinese teapot combining Yixing stoneware, archaistic decoration, unusual punched detailing, an expressive toad finial and two separate impressed seals an attractive and unusual piece for the specialist Chinese ceramics or Yixing collector.

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.