Bowl with Prowling Dragons

early 20th century

Not on view

Two powerful, sinuous dragons fill the surface of this large bowl. They prowl among flowering scrolls and above rolling waves. The dragons, which have five-claws, are painted in shades of yellow and green. The flowers and leaves, which are also found in the top register, are rendered in the same colors, as well as red , purple, and blue. The four character inscription written on the bottom reads tong shun tang zao, roughly “made at (or for) the hall of equitable favors.” Although this mark has not been identified yet, it is likely that the bowl was a special order item either produced by an independent potter or for an individual, possibly a scholar associated with the court.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Title: Bowl with Prowling Dragons
Period: Qing dynasty (1644–1911) or Republic period (1912–49)
Date: early 20th century
Culture: China
Medium: Porcelain with painted overglaze enamels over a transparent glaze (Jingdezhen ware)
Dimensions: H. 4 3/4 in. (12.1 cm); Diam. 12 in. (30.5 cm)
Classification: Ceramics
Credit Line: Gift of Sondra and Harold Wegweiser, 2012
Object Number: 2012.524
Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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