Yuan Dynasty (14th Century) Blue and White “Mandarin Ducks in Lotus Pond” Yuhuchun Vase

拍品描述

Dimensions: Height 28 cm (11.0 in./0.92 ft), Mouth Diameter 8 cm (3.1 in./0.26 ft); 14th century (Yuan Dynasty). Condition and Provenance: This vase is well-preserved, with an intact shape, smooth glaze, stable underglaze blue decoration, natural rust spots from the firing process, and signs of age and use. The base retains the original collector's label, and the foot is naturally unglazed with signs of age. Provenance: Private collection, New York, USA, from the estate of an Asian art collector. Description: This underglaze blue Yuhuchun vase, decorated with mandarin ducks and lotus pond motifs, is a typical example of Yuan Dynasty decorative porcelain, with an elegant shape and richly layered decoration. The vase follows the traditional Yuhuchun shape, with an everted mouth, slender neck, rounded shoulders, a full pear-shaped body, and a slightly everted foot. Its proportions are beautiful and balanced, making it a classic vessel for elegant interior decoration in traditional court literati settings. The body is decorated with multiple decorative bands. The mouth of the vase is decorated with scrolling floral patterns, while the neck is adorned with banana leaf patterns, geometric rhombuses, and floral motifs, creating an exquisite composition. The body depicts a vibrant lotus pond scene: blooming lotuses, unfurling green leaves, lush aquatic plants, and a pair of mandarin ducks swimming leisurely in the water. The mandarin ducks' feathers are delicately depicted, their postures natural, complementing the willow trees and forming a lively and harmonious picture. Scrolling floral borders separate the various decorative sections, with the lower section decorated with stylized lotus petal and cloud patterns. Natural rust marks from the firing process are visible in the underglaze blue decoration, adding to its charm and historical feel. The body is covered with a lustrous blue-white glaze, with rich cobalt blue tones, particularly prominent in the shadows between the brushstrokes. The base is an unglazed, sandy foot ring, revealing wheel-firing marks, fine kiln crackles, and signs of natural aging. The lotus and mandarin duck motif symbolizes harmony, piety, purity, and auspiciousness, making this vase not only a beautiful decorative art piece but also an important representative of traditional Chinese porcelain aesthetics. With its elegant shape, exquisite decoration, and rich historical background, this vase is extremely attractive to Chinese ceramic collectors.

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