A BLUE AND WHITE ROULEAU VASE

KANGXI PERIOD (1662-1722)

Details

A BLUE AND WHITE ROULEAU VASE
KANGXI PERIOD (1662-1722)
The vase is well painted with a continuous scene of a gathering of the Eighteen Scholars of the Tang dynasty shown at various pursuits including playing the qin and playing weiqi while being served by numerous attendants, some of whom are floating wine cups on lotus leaves in a stream, all below a band of detached shou characters and a combined ruyi and key-fret band penciled in blue line either side of a single rib that encircles the neck.
18½ in. (47 cm.) high

Provenance

Private collection, Dallas, Texas, ca. 1992.

If you wish to view the condition report of this lot, please sign in to your account.

View condition report

Lot Essay

The decoration most likely represents the gathering of eighteen erudite scholars who were specifically chosen by Emperor Taizong (626-649) to promote interests of culture and literature. The scene could also represent a tribute to the successful passing of the state examination, or congratulations on a promotion. These last two possibilities may explain the two scholars, one seated and one standing, who appear to be looking directly at the viewer of the vase.

More from Fine Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art

View All