Yuan Dynasty Blue and White Children at Play Ewer (Blue and White Lotus Petal Scroll and Figural Decoration Water Vessel)

拍品描述

Dimensions: 18.5 cm (7.3 in./0.61 ft) long, 4 cm (1.6 in./0.13 ft) high, 13th-14th century. Condition and Provenance: Condition: This piece is well-preserved, with a symmetrical shape, clear underglaze blue decoration, a soft and aged glaze with natural rust spots, and signs of use. The original unglazed sandy base remains intact. Provenance: Private collection, California, USA. Description: This underglaze blue children's playful water jug measures 18.5 cm in length and 4 cm in height. Designed as a scholar's drinking and washing vessel, its form imitates ancient bronzes, reflecting the elegant transition from ritual vessels to ceramic ware from the Yuan to the early Ming dynasties. The body is shallow and round, with a slightly flared spout decorated with cloud patterns at the base. The overall silhouette is smooth, balanced, and practical, combining elegant aesthetics with the practical function of an everyday study. The interior is decorated with a circular motif depicting a lively scene of children at play. A young boy with his hair tied up and ribbons flowing, holds a decorative ball, surrounded by rocks, pine branches, orchids, and duckweed. The rich cobalt blue glaze, with natural rust spots, gives the painting a distinctive early blue-and-white porcelain characteristic. The exterior is divided into four upward-spreading lotus petal patterns, outlined with bold cobalt blue lines. Each pattern is decorated with symmetrical cloud patterns and dots, creating a striking blue-and-white contrast. The delicate rim completes the overall composition. The lotus motif embodies traditional auspicious symbolism and Buddhist decorative themes. The body is made of high-quality white porcelain, covered with a smooth, translucent blue-and-white glaze. The surface has a warm, soft sheen, while the exposed rim and base retain signs of age and use. The flat, unglazed bottom reveals natural deposits, surface wear, and characteristics of traditional handmade ceramics. The winnowing basket originated from ancient bronze ritual vessels and later evolved into an elegant scholar's vessel used for holding water and cleaning. This piece blends figure painting, lotus motifs, and classic blue-and-white art. Its complete structure, exquisite decoration, and characteristics of early porcelain make it a coveted treasure for collectors of Chinese blue and white porcelain and literati artifacts.

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