Ming Dynasty Xuande Period Blue and Polychrome “Tian” Marked Sea Wave and Mythical Beast Covered Jar (15th Century)

拍品描述

Dimensions: Approx. 17.5 cm in height and 8 cm in rim diameter (approx. 6.9 inches in height and 3.1 inches in rim diameter; approx. 0.57 feet in height and 0.26 feet in rim diameter), 15th Century Ming Dynasty Xuande Period，Condition & Provenance: The jar retains its original matching cover and is preserved in very good condition. The fine porcelain body, luminous glaze, and decorative palette of underglaze blue, iron-red, yellow, and green enamels remain well preserved, with natural signs of age consistent with an antique porcelain piece. The blue “Tian” mark on the base remains clearly visible. Provenance: Private Collection, Hong Kong，Description: This exceptional Ming Dynasty imperial-style covered jar is known as a “Tian Mark Jar,” a highly sought-after form among Ming court porcelains. The vessel features a refined rounded body with a short neck, broad shoulder, gently tapering lower section, and a matching domed cover topped with a pearl-shaped finial. The balanced proportions and elegant silhouette represent the classic imperial jar form of the Xuande period. The center of the white-glazed base bears a single underglaze blue character “Tian,” a distinctive mark associated with this important category of Ming porcelain. The decoration is carefully arranged in multiple layers. The rim is decorated with a continuous band of yellow lotus petals with clear outlines and a rich, stable tone. The main body features dynamic blue-and-white waves and rocky shore imagery, with powerful rolling waves covering the surface. Above the water are several auspicious mythical sea creatures painted in iron-red and yellow enamels, each shown with different forms and lively movement, surrounded by flowing blue clouds. The creatures appear to run across the waves, creating a strong sense of motion and energy. The cobalt blue, vivid red, and warm yellow enamels create a striking and harmonious visual effect. The lower section is finished with a yellow upward-facing lotus petal border, echoing the decoration near the rim. The cover features a pearl-shaped finial and a green enamel background decorated with yellow dragons and auspicious clouds, while the edge is finished with green scrolling cloud patterns outlined in yellow. The porcelain body is fine and dense, fully covered with a smooth white glaze. The combination of blue-and-white painting and polychrome enamel decoration demonstrates the refined craftsmanship of Ming imperial kilns. The sea wave and mythical beast design symbolizes peace throughout the realm and auspicious prosperity. Rarely preserved with its original cover, this “Tian” marked jar represents both exceptional display quality and significant collectible importance.

图片