Ming Dynasty, Jiajing Period (16th Century) Large Blue and White Porcelain Square Vase with Dragon and Phoenix Decoration, Animal Mask Ring Handles

拍品描述

Dimensions: H. 56.5 cm (22.2 in.), mouth length 16 cm (6.3 in.), 16th Century，Condition & Provenance: Good condition with a well-preserved structure, natural aging to the glaze surface, exposed unglazed foot, and authentic traces of age including old surface stains and wear. The base shows an old historical hairline. Provenance: Private Collection, California, USA.Description: This impressive Ming Dynasty Jiajing period blue and white porcelain square vase represents the grandeur and technical achievement of 16th-century imperial ceramics. The monumental square-form body features a flared rim, tall neck, angular swelling body, four sides decorated with sculpted animal-mask ring handles, and a sturdy square foot, creating a powerful and commanding presence. The entire surface is richly painted in deep cobalt blue against a white porcelain ground, producing a striking contrast and sophisticated visual effect. The rim carries a blue and white reign mark reading “Da Ming Jiajing Nian Zhi.” The neck is decorated with intertwined dragon and phoenix motifs among floral scrolls, with dynamic dragons and elegant phoenixes rendered in a lively style. The shoulder features waves and rocky landscape motifs, while the main body displays paired dragons and phoenixes moving through dense scrolling floral patterns, creating a highly decorative and balanced composition. The four sides are further enhanced with three-dimensional animal mask handles with curling mane details, demonstrating the combination of blue-and-white painting and applied sculptural techniques. The lower section is decorated with wave motifs and upright lotus petals, while the exterior of the foot is finished with continuous floral scrolls. The interior retains its original blue-white glaze with visible signs of age. The exposed sandy foot reveals a solid porcelain body with accumulated historical surface marks. With its exceptional size, elaborate decoration, and rare surviving form, this vase represents the prestigious decorative ceramics produced during the Jiajing reign and remains a highly desirable museum-quality collecting piece.

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