Minneapolis Institute of Art

Imperial Fish Bowl

China

Date

Wanli mark and period (1573–1619)

Medium

Doucai ware Porcelain with underglaze blue and overglaze enamel decor

Department

Asian Art

Institution

Minneapolis Institute of Art

Large and sturdily potted with a thick rim, this deep bowl probably functioned as an imperial fish tank ( kang ) or possibly as a jardinière for potted plants. The Ming period is distinguished in ceramic history for the introduction of new in-glaze color combinations and the use of overglaze enamels. The terms wu ts'ai (five-color) and tou-ts'ai (joined colors), were used loosely to mean polychrome or multiple-color ware. A tou-ts'ai pattern such as this one has its overglaze colors applied to a design outlined in underglaze cobalt oxide blue. Imperial marked porcelains indicate that Tou-ts'ai wares were first manufactured during the Xuande reign (1426-35). Decorated with a magnificent imperial five-claw dragon, this bowl bears a six-character Wanli reign mark (1573-1619), indicating that it was made on imperial order possibly at the great imperial factory at Jingdezhen. The dragons on this basin are pursuing large yellow springs of ling-chih , the fungus of immortality. The lotus plants symbolize harmony and the entire image conveys the wish of extended good fortune for the empire. China, Asia

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