Jar with dragon and stylized character for longevity (shou)

China

Not on view

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.

Jar with dragon and stylized character for longevity (shou), Porcelain painted in underglaze blue, China

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Jar with dragon and stylized character for longevity (shou), Porcelain painted in underglaze blue, China
Jar with dragon and stylized character for longevity (shou), Porcelain painted in underglaze blue, China
Jar with dragon and stylized character for longevity (shou), Porcelain painted in underglaze blue, China
Jar with dragon and stylized character for longevity (shou), Porcelain painted in underglaze blue, China
Jar with dragon and stylized character for longevity (shou), Porcelain painted in underglaze blue, China
Jar with dragon and stylized character for longevity (shou), Porcelain painted in underglaze blue, China
Jar with dragon and stylized character for longevity (shou), Porcelain painted in underglaze blue, China

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