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Up for sale is this "A 15C Chinese Polychrome Dragon and Phoenix Cup, Chenghua Mark #5239" If you have any questions please contact us before buy it. No reserve.
width: approx. 8.5cm (3 11⁄32in)
height: approx. 3.8cm (1 1⁄2in)
weight: 65g
This Da Ming Chenghua Nian Zhi polychrome Long Feng (Dragon and Phoenix) bowl is an exceptional piece of enameled porcelain attributed to the Chenghua period of the Ming Dynasty (1465–1487). Chenghua porcelain is renowned for its exquisite painting techniques and delicate glaze texture, often produced for the imperial court and highly regarded in art history.
The exterior of this bowl features a dynamic depiction of a dragon and a gracefully rendered phoenix, surrounded by finely detailed arabesque patterns. In Chinese symbolism, the dragon represents the emperor, while the phoenix symbolizes the empress, suggesting that this piece was likely used in the imperial court or as a tribute offering. The color composition is another remarkable aspect, showcasing a harmonious blend of vivid red, blue, and green hues, characteristic of Chenghua polychrome porcelain. The soft and warm texture of the glaze further exemplifies the refined craftsmanship of this period. The interior bears an elegant floral arabesque motif in the center, while the base is inscribed with the Da Ming Chenghua Nian Zhi mark, indicating its historical significance.
Regarding its condition, the bowl is exceptionally well-preserved, with the glaze maintaining its luster and the painted decorations retaining their brilliance. There are no visible chips or wear on the rim, and the body remains free from significant damage or scratches. The inscription on the base is clear and legible, demonstrating the remarkable care taken in its preservation over the centuries. A label is affixed to the side, which may provide insight into its provenance, potentially linking it to a historical collection.
This bowl embodies all the quintessential characteristics of Chenghua-period polychrome porcelain, making it an invaluable piece not only as a decorative artifact but also as an important reference for studying the history of Chinese ceramics.