Vase with scenes from Romance of the West Chamber

China

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 203

The scenes on this vase come from Romance of the West Chamber, arguably China’s most popular romantic play. Written by Wang Shifu (ca. 1260–1336), the play tells the story of two star-crossed lovers. Zhang Gong is an impoverished young scholar, and Cui Yingying is the daughter of a high-ranking official. After many romantic experiences and dramatic difficulties, some of which are depicted on this vase, the two lovers eventually get married.

Vase with scenes from Romance of the West Chamber, Porcelain painted in cobalt blue under transparent glaze (Jingdezhen ware), China

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Vase with scenes from Romance of the West Chamber, Porcelain painted in cobalt blue under transparent glaze (Jingdezhen ware), China
Vase with scenes from Romance of the West Chamber, Porcelain painted in cobalt blue under transparent glaze (Jingdezhen ware), China
Vase with scenes from Romance of the West Chamber, Porcelain painted in cobalt blue under transparent glaze (Jingdezhen ware), China
Vase with scenes from Romance of the West Chamber, Porcelain painted in cobalt blue under transparent glaze (Jingdezhen ware), China
Vase with scenes from Romance of the West Chamber, Porcelain painted in cobalt blue under transparent glaze (Jingdezhen ware), China

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