Covered Tripod, 19th century
Unknown artist, Chinaexpand_more
Light green jadeite with white and green markingsexpand_more
The John R. Van Derlip Fund and Gift of the Thomas Barlow Walker Foundationexpand_more 92.103.22a,b
On View in Gallery 210expand_more
An exceptionally large and spectacular example of bright green (feicui) jadeite, this vessel is one of the highlights of the T. B. Walker collection. The artist has contrasted large areas of smooth undecorated surface with smaller areas of superbly detailed carving. The Buddhist lions surmounting the lid and animal masks on the handles and legs were symbolic guardians, most frequently seen flanking the entrances of important Ming and Qing buildings. Like white jade, feicui or "kingfisher feather blue" was a highly prized color during the nineteenth century and continues to be so today. The term aptly describes the bright and luminous turquoise-green jadeite, of which this imperial vessel is one of the finest examples known.
Many decorative art objects were sold from the imperial collection following the fall of the Qing dynasty in 1912. The last emperor, Xuantong, and his retainers, though stripped of power, were allowed to keep the imperial treasures. Records show that T. B. Walker purchased this piece in 1914.
Details
- Title
- Covered Tripod
- Role
- Artist
- Dimension
- 10 1/2 in. (26.67 cm)
- Accession Number
- 92.103.22a,b
- 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.