The shape of this flask is based on a leather drinking flask traditionally used by the nomadic people of the North west regions of China. It is often referred to in Chinese as a 'Bianhu' and is also widely known as a pilgrim flask. This kind of flask is typically of flattened ovoid or circular form. This one is decorated in underglaze blue with a stylised lotus design, simple banded lines and floral scrolls. It dates to the reign of the Yongle emperor (1402-1424) of the Ming dynasty (1366-1644).
Physical description
The main body of the flask is of flattened circular form, the neck is narrow at the shoulder and widens at the top. Two slender handles adjoin the neck and the shoulder. Decorated in underglaze blue with a stylised lotus design, simple banded decoration and floral scrolls.
Place of Origin
China (made)
Date
1400-1430 (made)
Artist/maker
Unknown
Materials and Techniques
Glazed and decorated porcelain and cobalt
Dimensions
Height: 13 in, Diameter: 8.5 in
Object history note
Historical significance: The shape of this flask is based on a leather form traditionally used by the nomadic people of the North west regions of China. It is often referred to in Chinese as a 'Bianhu' and is also widely known as a pilgrim flask.
Historical context note
Similar pieces are known to exist in the Percival David Foundation collection, the Sedgwick collection and the Topkapi Sarray, Istanbul - also dating to the Yongle period.
Descriptive line
Porcelain flask decorated in underglaze blue with dragon design, China, Ming dynasty, ca. 1400-1430
Bibliographic References (Citation, Note/Abstract, NAL no)
Ayers, John. 'Far Eastern Ceramics in the Victoria and Albert Museum' Monochrome plate No. 145.
Labels and date
Flask, 1400-1430, Ming dynasty. Blue and white porcelain. [01/12/2008]
Materials
Porcelain; Cobalt; Glaze
Techniques
Glazing; Painting; Firing
Subjects depicted
Lotus
Categories
Ceramics
Production Type
Mass produced
Collection
East Asia Collection