Swatow or Zhangzhou Ming Dynasty Blue and White Porcelain Vase

This decorative antique porcelain vase is a wonderful example of the Ming Dynasty Chinese ceramic artistry tradition.  It is alive with decoration - in loose, expressive and spontaneous brushwork.  The motifs are in a subtle and soft wash - shades of cobalt mineral blues that softly blur giving tonal variation as the pigments diffuse beneath the glaze.   The darker inky blues also bleed creating a wonderful pooling and feathering effect, and the glaze has a pale blue tinge and soft translucency that adds depth and reflects light, adding extra focus to the porcelain body beneath.  Fired many centuries ago in high temperature but simply made kilns – the vase has natural firing marks, variations and a provincial quality, with the rim and foot being unglazed and having a slightly rough texture.  It is typical of the rustic ceramic antiques from this period - full of authenticity and character.

History ~
Swatow or Zhangzhou Ware was predominately produced during the late Ming Dynasty (1550 – 1644) - although some production did continue after this period.  It was made in the province of Fuji and large quantities of ceramics such as this piece were exported to Southeast Asia and Japan.   

Condition ~
Good antique condition, no chips or cracks, light surface wear and irregularities in the original kiln firing.

Dimensions ~
H 17 l W 20.5 l D 20.5 l Diameter of rim to far edge 10 cm