Ewer, 16th century
Unknown artist, Chinaexpand_more
Porcelain with underglaze blue decorationexpand_more
Gift of Ruth and Bruce Daytonexpand_more 2000.147.2
Not on Viewexpand_more
Blue-and-white porcelains directly modeled on Persian and Islamic metalware were produced as early as the Yongle era (1403-25) most likely as diplomatic gifts for central Asian and Middle Eastern rulers. This pear-shaped ewer with its elongated spout, delicate handle, and slender proportions, while later in date, is likewise inspired by Islamic metalwork. The underglaze blue-and-white decoration however is entirely in Chinese taste. The heart-shaped pictorial panels depict scholars and their attendants in landscape settings. The remaining decoration of flower blossoms, Daoist attributes, and border patterns are also typically Chinese and can be traced back to at least the fourteenth and early fifteenth centuries. The ewer is a good example of the adaptation of foreign objects to Chinese aesthetic preferences. Its base contains a four-character inscription in underglaze blue, which reads, "fu shou k'ang ning," an auspicious mark wishing happiness, longevity, peace, and tranquility for the owner.
Details
- Title
- Ewer
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- 2000.147.2
- Curator Approved
This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
Does something look wrong with this image? Let us know
Zoom in on the left to the detail you'd like to save. Click 'Save detail' and wait until the image updates. Right click the image to 'save image as' or copy link, or click the image to open in a new tab.