Ming Wanli Period, Blue‑and‑White Garlic‑Head Vase with Dragon‑among‑Flowers Motif

拍品描述

Dimensions: Height 41.5 cm (1.362 ft) Condition and Provenance: In pristine condition, with a smooth, glossy glaze, a rich and deep cobalt blue hue, slight signs of aging on the rim and foot ring, and a natural patina on the unglazed base. No cracks or signs of repair. Formerly in the private collection of Arthur Morgan of Dallas, Texas, USA. Acquired in Hong Kong in the 1980s, passed down through family. No prior public auction, publication, or exhibition record. Description: This garlic-head vase is an important imperial porcelain piece from the Wanli period of the Ming Dynasty. It features a garlic-shaped mouth, a slender neck, a rounded pear-shaped body, and a wide foot ring. The garlic-head rim is inscribed with a six-character horizontal mark, "Made in the Wanli Reign of the Great Ming Dynasty." The garlic-head is decorated with wave patterns, followed by banana leaf patterns; the long neck is densely covered with lotus scrolls and the Eight Auspicious Symbols. A wave and rock pattern separates the neck from the body. The main decorative motif on the belly depicts two majestic dragons weaving through lush, curly flowers, their manes flowing, their five claws sharp, surrounded by verdant foliage. The lower body is adorned with meander and lotus petal patterns. The striking blue hue is a typical characteristic of Huizhou-style cobalt enamel porcelain from the Wanli period. The intricate, multi-layered decoration showcases the opulent aesthetics of late Ming imperial porcelain. With its tall and elegant form, it is a rare and precious piece among Wanli blue-and-white porcelain.

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