MING DYNASTY (1368-1644)

Details

AN UNUSUAL GREYISH-GREEN JADE CYLINDRICAL CUP
MING DYNASTY (1368-1644)
Raised on three mask-form supports, the sides are well carved with an archaistic design of a dragon confronting a phoenix on a ground of raised bosses interrupted by a large taotie mask from which projects a ring-form handle with mask-form thumb support. The base is carved with archaistic cloud scroll. Together with a pale greenish-white jade lotus-form water dropper, 17th century, that comprises a pod-form water receptacle joined to the lotus bud-form spout by a pierced common wall, and is borne on ribbon-tied stems.
Cup 3 5/8 in. (9 cm.) high, 4¾ in. (12 cm.) across handle; water dropper 4½ in. (11.4 cm.) long, wood stand (2)

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Lot Essay

Compare the similar grey-green jade cup, raised on tripod supports and with ring handle, carved around the sides with similar decoration, illustrated by J. Rawson in Chinese Jades throughout the ages, The Oriental Ceramic Society, London, 1975, pp. 99-100, no. 322, where it is dated 13th-15th century. Another similarly decorated cup raised on three mask-form supports and with related ring handle, p. 116, no. 387, is dated 17th-18th century. All of these cups have a thick-walled body and a thick ring handle. Two other cups with similar design on the sides, but with different handles, are also illustrated, nos. 323 and 324, which are dated 13th-15th century.

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