Mizusashi (water jar) of the Shonzui type with a design of children at play
Data
| Artist | Jingdezhen ware |
|---|---|
| Period | China, Ming dynasty, 17th century |
| Materials and techniques | Porcelain with underglaze blue decoration |
| Size | H.16.9 MD.12.5 D.22.4 BD.11.0 |
Explanation
This is a fresh water jar with a matching lid decorated in a vivid underglaze blue with a design of Chinese children at play amidst intricate peony scrolls and circles reserved in white. It is in a shape called mikan (tangerine), and is said to have been produced on commission for Japan in the Jingezhen kilns at the end of the Ming dynasty during the Chongzhen reign period (1628–44). This type of blue and white ware decorated in a vivid blue color is known as shonzui in Japan, among which are various tea utensils such as tea bowls and incense containers.