Creative Commons License
Gourd-Shaped Vase
(China )
This two-lobed gourd-shaped vase consists of a grayish white porcelain body covered in a finely crackled glaze. The cracks create a network of light brown lines. Beneath the glaze are broad bands filled with lotuses, peonies, and lilies carved into the soft paste of the porcelain. Geometric key fret decorates the cinched waist that divides the gourd into upper and lower portions. Beneath the rim are further incised designs, depicting ruyi heads; this heart-shaped motif derives from the ruyi staff of Buddhist monastic leaders. While made during the Qing dynasty, this vase draws inspiration from prized Song dynasty white ware.
Inscription
Provenance
Provenance (from the French provenir, 'to come from/forth') is the chronology of the ownership, custody, or location of a historical object. Learn more about provenance at the Walters.
William T. Walters, Baltimore [date and mode of acquisition unknown]; inherited by Henry Walters, Baltimore, 1894; bequest to Walters Art Museum, 1931.
Exhibitions
| 1980-1981 | Masterpieces of Chinese Porcelain. The Walters Art Gallery, Baltimore. |
Geographies
China (Place of Origin)
Measurements
H: 11 3/4 in. (29.8 cm)
Credit Line
Bequest of Henry Walters, 1931
Location in Museum
Not on view
Accession Number
In libraries, galleries, museums, and archives, an accession number is a unique identifier assigned to each object in the collection.
In libraries, galleries, museums, and archives, an accession number is a unique identifier assigned to each object in the collection.
49.120