Ming Dynasty Blue and White Peony Scroll Elephant-Ear Offering Vase with Inscription (15th–17th Century)

拍品描述

Dimensions: H. 30 cm (11.8 in / 0.98 ft), 15th–17th Century Ming Blue and White Porcelain，Condition & Provenance: Overall in good condition with well-preserved structure, a smooth aged glaze surface, and natural signs of age consistent with an antique ceramic object. The exposed foot retains its original ceramic texture and historical appearance. Provenance: Private Collection, New York, USA.Description: This remarkable blue and white vase was created as a Daoist ritual offering vessel. The form is carefully balanced, featuring a tall straight neck, pear-shaped body, and slightly flared foot. Two molded elephant-head handles are symmetrically applied on both sides of the neck, with the elephants holding movable rings in their trunks, symbolizing peace and prosperity. A decorative band of linked coin motifs encircles the area below the rim, creating a classic and elegant design. The front of the vessel is fully decorated with blue and white scrolling peony motifs. The vines flow gracefully across the surface, while the large peony blossoms are richly painted with clearly defined petals and leaves. The cobalt-blue decoration has a refined and understated tone, with natural and expressive brushwork. The reverse side features a vertical blue and white dedicatory inscription reading “Offered before the altar of the Xishan Daoist Temple in Fuliang Prefecture,” written in a relaxed folk-style calligraphy. This inscription provides important historical information regarding the location, religious setting, and original purpose of the vessel. The body is covered with a soft bluish-white glaze displaying a warm aged appearance. The unglazed foot reveals a dry, natural ceramic body characteristic of early Chinese porcelain production. As a specialized Daoist ritual vessel produced by a local kiln, this vase preserves both its artistic beauty and valuable historical documentation, making it a rare example of Ming period religious offering porcelain.

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