Minneapolis Institute of Art

Ewer

China

Date

18th century

Medium

Porcelain with cobalt blue decoration under a clear glaze

Department

Asian Art

Institution

Minneapolis Institute of Art

This unusual four-legged covered ewer takes the general form of a type of ancient bronze wine vessel termed he. The work is a fine example of the use of an ancient bronze shape in combination with designs painted in underglaze blue-and-white. The rare decorative pattern consists of numerous lingzhi mushrooms (the mushroom of immortality) set against an overall tendril design. The eight Buddhist emblems (conch shell, umbrella, canopy, unending knot, double fish, lotus, wheel of the law, and vase), each appearing above a lotus blossom, encircle the belly of the vessel. Together, the symbols signify Buddhist values and a wish for good health and long life. The inclusion of Buddhist symbols suggests that this vessel might have been intended for Buddhist rituals. China, Asia

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