Untitled

Unknown

late 17th–early 18th century · Porcelain painted in polychrome enamels over black ground (Jingdezhen ware, famille noire) · Asian Art

Flowers and birds are commonly found on famille noire ware, but this vase features two powerful dragons chasing fire pearls among clouds in a design showcasing a strong color contrast of green and black enamel. The whimsical expressions of these dragons reveal the potter’s sense of humor, which is unusual in Chinese ceramics.

Artist

Unknown

Date

late 17th–early 18th century

Medium

Porcelain painted in polychrome enamels over black ground (Jingdezhen ware, famille noire)

Culture

China

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

Bequest of Benjamin Altman, 1913