Period:Ming dynasty (1368–1644), Jiajing period (1522–66) Date:16th century Culture:China Medium:Porcelain painted in underglaze blue Dimensions:H. 20 1/2 in. (52.1 cm); Diam. 20 in. (50.8 cm) Classification:Ceramics Credit Line:Gift of Elizabeth Milbank Anderson, 1920 Accession Number:20.144 The Ming emperor Jiajing was known for his fervent interest in Daoism, in which longevity is a cherished goal. This magnificent jar, fired in the imperial workshop, marries the imperial aesthetic with Jiajing ’ s Daoist sensibility. The stylized character for longevity (shou) is chased by two five-clawed dragons, symbols of imperial power.
Period:Ming dynasty (1368–1644), Jiajing period (1522–66) Date:16th century Culture:China Medium:Porcelain painted in underglaze blue Dimensions:H. 20 1/2 in. (52.1 cm); Diam. 20 in. (50.8 cm) Classification:Ceramics Credit Line:Gift of Elizabeth Milbank Anderson, 1920 Accession Number:20.144 The Ming emperor Jiajing was known for his fervent interest in Daoism, in which longevity is a cherished goal. This magnificent jar, fired in the imperial workshop, marries the imperial aesthetic with Jiajing ’ s Daoist sensibility. The stylized character for longevity (shou) is chased by two five-clawed dragons, symbols of imperial power.