EN
♡
Baluster Jar and Cover — Anonymous, Ming dynasty (1368–1644) or Qing dynasty (1644–1911)

Click image to view full screen

Written by: Isabella De LucaContributing Writer · Furniture & Decorative Arts
Asian Art · Catalogue no. 16111
Anonymous, Ming dynasty (1368–1644) or Qing dynasty (1644–1911)

Baluster Jar and Cover

StatusReference work · Not for sale
Held byCleveland Museum of Art
Own a comparable work? Consign with us

✓ Authenticity guarantee · ✓ Specialist condition report · ✓ Insured worldwide shipping · ✓ Private-room viewing

The central motif on this jar is a mountain emerging from the sea, symbolizing Mount Sumeru in Buddhist cosmology, and representing the central axis in the universe in Daoism. White cherry blossoms floating on the wavy ground are surrounded by auspicious symbols such as the coin for wealth and the lozenge for victory. The yellow knob on the jar’s cover depicts a cherry blossom. Other fortuitous motifs—such as the leaf of protection, the pearl to grant wishes, the stone chime for celebration, rocks symbolizing longevity—also decorate the lid. While most jars have lost their covers over time, this jar retains its original lid.

Artist / MakerAnonymous, Ming dynasty (1368–1644) or Qing dynasty (1644–1911)
Date1600–1650
Culture / OriginChina, Jiangxi province, Jingdezhen kilns, Ming dynasty (1368–1644) or Qing dynasty (1644–1911)
MediumPorcelain with wucai (five-color) enamels
DimensionsOverall: 36.8 x 23.8 cm (14 1/2 x 9 3/8 in.)
DepartmentChinese Art
TypeCeramic
About the Artist

Full biography →

Provenance & Source

Image & data: Cleveland Museum of Art, CC0 / Public Domain.

Condition

A detailed condition report and high-resolution photography are available from our specialists in advance of the sale.

Shipping & Collection

Fine-art shipping with climate control and full insurance to over 120 countries; collection by appointment.

Buying at Matchless Pieces

Register, verify your identity, and bid online or in a private room. Buyer’s premium and taxes are shown before you confirm.

The Matchless Letter

Sale previews, new discoveries in illumination and miniature, and private-room invitations.