On loan to The Met The Met accepts temporary loans of art both for short-term exhibitions and for long-term display in its galleries.
Vase with mythical creatures
This magnificent vase exhibits the fascination with archaistic designs prevalent during the Qing dynasty. Its form follows that of an ancient square wine container (fanghu) but is transformed into an unusual six-sided shape. The only décor on the otherwise unadorned surface encircles the vessel’s neck. The four broad facets of the vessel feature a band of intertwined mythical creatures in low relief covered with dense spirals reminiscent of archaic designs. Each of the narrow facets features a sinuous creature in high relief that together serve as handles. The vessel base bears a spurious mark “Made in the Xuande period of the Great Ming.” Judging from its form, ornament, and the writing style of the mark, this piece was not made during the Xuande period (1426–35); rather, it is a work of the eighteenth century that reflects the fascination with archaistic designs prevalent at that time.
This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.
This artwork is meant to be viewed from right to left. Scroll left to view more.
