Censer decorated with the Seven Sages of the Bamboo Grove
On loan to The Met
This work of art is currently on loan to the museum.The Seven Sages of the Bamboo Grove were a group of men who retreated from society during the turbulent third century to pursue music, engage in pure conversation, and drink wine in the rustic wilds beyond the reach of daily affairs. This vessel, made to hold burning incense, depicts the Sages ensconced amid stalks of bamboo, distanced from the cares of the world.
Artwork Details
- 明崇禎 景德鎮窯青花竹林七賢圖香爐
- Title: Censer decorated with the Seven Sages of the Bamboo Grove
- Period: Ming dynasty (1368–1644)
- Date: ca. 1640
- Culture: China
- Medium: Porcelain painted in underglaze cobalt blue (Jingdezhen ware)
- Dimensions: H. 5 3/4 in. (14.6 cm); Diam. 8 1/2 in. (21.6 cm)
- Classification: Ceramics
- Credit Line: Promised Gift of Julia and John Curtis, in celebration of the Museum’s 150th Anniversary
- Object Number: L.2017.53.11
- Curatorial Department: Asian Art