Architectural tile with apsara, from the “Porcelain Pagoda”

Ming dynasty (1368–1644), Yongle Period (1403–24)

Not on view

Now destroyed, the so-called Porcelain Pagoda, a tower constructed of white porcelain bricks, was begun in 1413 by order of the Yongle emperor. Built to honor his mother, it was finished about two decades later. The tower was considered an important monument by Westerners and was often illustrated in travel guides. Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (1807–1882) sang its praises in a poem entitled Keramos.

Artwork Details

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References

Title: Architectural tile with apsara, from the “Porcelain Pagoda”
Period: Ming dynasty (1368–1644), Yongle Period (1403–24)
Culture: China
Medium: Stoneware with colored glazes
Dimensions: H. 21 1/4 in. (54 cm); W. 13 in. (33 cm); D. 6 3/4 in. (17.1 cm)
Classification: Ceramics
Credit Line: Purchase by subscription, 1879
Object Number: 79.2.790
Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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