DISH
The pattern on this dish shows the Three Friends of Winter (pine, blossoming plum, and bamboo), which symbolize longevity because of their ability to stay green or flower in cold weather. Other symbols of longevity shown are a lingzhi—a mushroom believed to promote long life—and a tall rock. The meaning behind the dish is a wish for long-lasting life.
This dish was made for the imperial court at the imperial kilns in Jingdezhen in southern China. The dish has a mark underneath with the name of the emperor’s reign. Chenghua ware is especially elegant and refined. It is decorated with underglaze cobalt oxide painting, which turns blue during firing. It may have been used as tableware or decoration.
Object Number
F1951.11
Date
Chenghua reign, 1465–87, Ming dynasty
Place of Origin
China
Medium
Porcelain with cobalt under colorless glaze
Dimensions
H × Diam: 4.3 × 20.1 cm
(1 11/16 × 7 15/16 in.)
Credit line
Purchase—Charles Lang Freer Endowment