Blue and White Rice Bowl

c. 1900
$148 USD
Make an Offer
Dimensions
H: 2.5" Dia: 5.75"
Materials
Porcelain
Purchase Quantity
Collection #
QQQ325B
Estimated Shipping
$16

This late 19th-century footed bowl would have been offered by Chinese traders traveling along the Silk Road in exchange for spices or gems. The Chinese artisans who hand-painted it with scrolls, loops, and crossed lines thought the meandering decorations resembled Perso-Arabic calligraphy.

Tucked within the swirling pattern is the Chinese symbol of double happiness, a blessing of happiness and good fortune for the recipient. Etched into the base of the bowl is a small endless knot, a Buddhist symbol of longevity and endurance. This bowl would have been used every day for food and drink, and lives on as keepsake of the cultural history spanning from East to West Asia.

Questions? Ask us
Blue & White Porcelain

Soon after its development in the Yuan dynasty (1271–1368 AD), blue-and-white underglaze porcelain became a favorite of the imperial court. Its broad appeal rapidly extended beyond China’s borders, becoming a lucrative export commodity highly sought after in Europe, the Middle East, and beyond.

Using cobalt imported from Western Asia, ceramic artists ground the mineral into a vibrant blue pigment that was then painted directly on a porcelain base, coated with clear glaze, and fired. This underglaze technique brought with it a shift in focus from the overall shape of a vessel to the skill and artistry traceable in its painted decoration.

Transcending time and taste, blue-and-white porcelain continues to be appreciated around the world for the intricate brushwork and brilliant blue color.

What They're Saying

Mick de Giulio | de Giulio kitchen design

“I love working with PAGODA RED. When I’m looking for something distinctive for one of my clients, I can be sure I’ll find it there. Betsy has an incredible eye for the beautiful and unique and she continues to offer one of the best collections of Chinese furniture and decorative art.”

Receive our weekly email on design &
creating memorable spaces