Chinese Cizhou Ceramic Vase with Russet Splash Glaze

An elegant Chinese ceramic vase in the classic Meiping form, with black glaze and brown russet-splashed pattern. The russet splash glaze was an iconic glaze design from Cizhou China, Northern Song-Jin Dynasty circa 12th century. It is also known as "partridge feather mottles" and was priced for its random and artistic expression. The iron glaze was applied in an almost abstract fashion and was often allowed to flow and drip onto the lower unglazed portion.
This vase bear a paper sticker from John Sparks, a well known oriental antique dealer in London as well as a personal collection paper label as shown. John Sparks (1854-1914), a former merchant mariners of the Far East routes, established his Japanese antique gallery in 1890. Hi son Ernest (Peter) Sparks (1894–1970), took over the company in 1914 and expanded into New York City and started focusing on Chinese antiques. During the 1920s and 1930s the company also operated a shop in Shanghai. Recognized as one of the most respected London dealers in Chinese art, John Sparks supplied an international clientele of collectors, including Queen Mary, from whom the company received the Royal Warrant of Antiquary of Chinese Art in 1926. 128 Mount Street in Mayfair London, where the paper labels has was the premise since 1927 until it closed in 1990.
The vase was from a CA collection of a Japanese doctor. It is possibly dated from Song Dynasty but it has not been TL tested. Professional advice is encouraged before the purchase.