Chinese Vase
China
A double-gourd vase constructed along a vertical axis, the volume organised through a globular lower body rising into a constricted waist and smaller upper globular body, terminating in a cylindrical neck with a flared rim.
Description
The lower body is pierced throughout in a diamond-lattice reticulation, interrupted by shaped cartouche reserves modelled in high relief. One reserve depicts a long-tailed bird perched upon a gnarled branch among pine foliage and cloud forms; the opposing reserve depicts a dragon among cloud forms and flowering plants. A band of basket-weave relief encircles the base. The upper body remains solid, decorated with a gnarled pine tree modelled in relief, its branches extending across the shoulder and body. A crane in flight appears on the upper body. A raised rectangular seal mark is positioned at the waist beneath the upper body.
Surface is compact and stable. Green glaze is retained across the form, with polychrome enamels confined to the relief decoration. Exposure is limited to minor wear at raised elements. Pierced and relief elements remain intact.
Context
Vessels of this type function within domestic and ceremonial contexts as presentation objects.
Provenance
From the Felice Maffei Collection, acquired in China, 1995.
Details
- Title
- Chinese Vase
- Culture
- Chinese
- Origin
- China
- Date
- 20th century
- Dimensions
- H 56.5 cm (22.2 in) · D 36.5 cm (14.4 in)
- Medium
- Glazed ceramic with polychrome enamel decoration
- Provenance
- From the Felice Maffei Collection, acquired in China, 1995.
- Condition
- Glaze retained; pierced and relief elements intact.
