Ming Dynasty, Chenghua Period (15th Century) Doucai “Chicken Cup”

拍品描述

Dimensions: Ming Dynasty Chenghua Period, 15th century. Height 4 cm (1.6 in), Mouth Diameter 8.5 cm (3.3 in)，Condition & Provenance: Good overall condition, with a complete porcelain body, luminous glaze, and well-preserved enamel decoration. No obvious restoration observed. Provenance: Private Collection, California, USA.Description: This doucai chicken cup represents one of the most iconic imperial porcelain forms created during the Ming Chenghua period. The cup features a shallow rounded body, slightly flared rim, gently curved sides, and a low recessed foot, reflecting the delicate and refined proportions of Chenghua court porcelain. The base bears the blue-and-white six-character mark “Da Ming Chenghua Nian Zhi” within a double square frame.The exterior is decorated with the famous “chicken cup” scene in the doucai technique. The design is outlined in underglaze blue, with overglaze enamels in red, green, and yellow carefully applied to create the lively garden scene. A pair of roosters and hens with several chicks are shown among garden rocks, cockscomb flowers, and orchids. The rooster stands proudly while the hen lowers its head and the chicks play around them, creating a charming and natural composition.The rim is finished with two fine blue painted lines, and the porcelain body is exceptionally thin, refined, and covered with a smooth white glaze. The combination of precise blue outlines and soft enamel colors demonstrates the exceptional craftsmanship of the Chenghua imperial kilns. As one of the most famous Ming dynasty doucai forms, the chicken cup remains among the most sought-after Chinese imperial porcelains, and this example displays refined painting, complete decoration, and strong collector appeal.

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