清康熙 景德鎮窯青花西廂記故事圖長頸瓶|Vase with scenes from Romance of the West Chamber

Unknown

late 17th century · Porcelain painted in cobalt blue under transparent glaze (Jingdezhen ware) · Asian Art

The scenes on this vase come from Romance of the West Chamber, arguably China’s most popular romantic play. Written by Wang Shifu (ca. 1260–1336), the play tells the story of two star-crossed lovers. Zhang Gong is an impoverished young scholar, and Cui Yingying is the daughter of a high-ranking official. After many romantic experiences and dramatic difficulties, some of which are depicted on this vase, the two lovers eventually get married.

Artist

Unknown

Date

late 17th century

Medium

Porcelain painted in cobalt blue under transparent glaze (Jingdezhen ware)

Culture

China

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

Purchase by subscription, 1879