Ming Dynasty, Chenghua Period (1465–1487) Doucai Cup with Round Dragon Decoration and Chenghua Six-Character Mark

拍品描述

Dimensions: Ming Dynasty Chenghua Period, 15th century. Diameter: 7.2 cm (2.8 in); Height: 5.2 cm (2.0 in)，Condition & Provenance: The cup is in good overall condition with a finely potted body, smooth white glaze, and well-preserved polychrome decoration. Natural signs of age and minor surface wear are consistent with historical use. Provenance: Private Collection, New York, USA; preserved in a family collection for over 50 years.Description: This Chenghua-period doucai cup features a refined and elegant form with a gently flared rim, deep rounded body, and a neatly finished foot. The porcelain body is exceptionally thin and delicate, covered with a luminous white glaze that highlights the soft beauty of the decoration. The exterior is painted with four round dragon medallions, each formed by scrolling kui-dragon motifs surrounded by floral vines and auspicious cloud patterns. The design combines underglaze blue outlines with carefully applied green, red, yellow, and blue overglaze enamels, creating a graceful and harmonious color palette. The rim and foot are accented with blue double-line borders, while the interior remains elegantly undecorated. The base bears the six-character Chenghua reign mark in blue-and-white within a double square frame. Chenghua doucai porcelain is widely regarded as one of the finest achievements of Ming imperial ceramics, and this small but exquisite cup represents the delicate craftsmanship, refined taste, and artistic excellence of the Chenghua imperial kilns.

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