清道光 景德鎮窯黃地粉彩花卉碗|Bowl with imaginary composite flowers

Unknown

Date unknown · Porcelain painted with overglaze enamels (Jingdezhen ware) · Asian Art

The blossoms and leaves on this bowl illustrate an imaginary flower that combines elements of the peony, lotus, chrysanthemum, pomegranate, and other plants. Intended to represent majesty and beauty, this decorative flower (often known as a baoxianghua) first appeared in the sixth or seventh century. Flowers are not found as motifs in Chinese art prior to this period, and it is possible they were introduced with Buddhist imagery.

Artist

Unknown

Date

Date unknown

Medium

Porcelain painted with overglaze enamels (Jingdezhen ware)

Culture

China

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

Purchase by subscription, 1879