Yuan Dynasty (1271–1368). Unearthed in 2006 from the tomb of Prince Yingjing, Zhongxiang
Height: 38.7 cm, mouth diameter: 6.4 cm, bottom diameter: 13 cm
The vase is unearthed from the joint burial tomb of Zhu Dong, the Ming Prince of Ying, and his consort, Lady Guo. The shoulder of the vase is decorated with a phoenix flying through peonies. The central body is divided into four diamond-shaped panels, each illustrating a well-known anecdote of scholar-literati devotion: Wang Xizhi’s affinity for the goose, Tao Yuanming’s love of chrysanthemums, Lin Hejing’s companionship with the plum blossoms and cranes, and Zhou Dunyi’s admiration for the lotus. The depicted figures are both lifelike and distinct, with clear features and the brushwork of the clothing is elegant and natural. The feet of the vase are adorned with stylized lotus petal patterns. The three decorative tiers are separated by curving grass pattern and brocade band scrolls. With a robust body, graceful form, and vibrant blue color, this vase is a masterpiece of blue-and-white porcelain from the Yuan Dynasty, produced at the Jingdezhen kilns in Jiangxi.
