Blue and White Scholars' Garden Fantail Vase

$1,880

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Dimensions

H: 36.75" Dia: 16.0"

Materials

Porcelain

Purchase Quantity

Collection #

BJEE155C

Estimated Shipping

$200

Chinese blue-and-white ceramics have inspired ceramists worldwide since cobalt was first introduced to China from the Middle East thousands of years ago. This contemporary vase from Jiangxi province takes a traditional curved shape emulating the feathers of a fan-tailed bird. Ranging from dark saturated tones to sheer washes, the expertly painted central illustration shows a group of scholars in an enclosed garden. The men refresh themselves with drink, games and music. Intricate detailing and other scenes featured on the vase’s neck suggest the rejuvenating aspects of the scholar’s garden.

Additional Dimensions
Diameter of opening: 6"

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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.