East Asia, China, Ming Dynasty, ca. 1368 to 1644 CE; Southeast Asia, Vietnam (Annamese), ca. 15th to 16th century CE. A collection of 5 porcelain blue-on-white bowls, each with scrolling foliate patterns and linear motifs- 4 are Chinese and the bowl with a character mark is Annamese. The center of the shallow dish has a qilin, a mythical dragon and horse-like being. Qilin are believed to appear upon the passing or arrival of a revered leader, interpreted as a good omen of peace and prosperity. Though appearing beast-like, these eccentric hybrids are said to refuse to walk upon grass for fear of harming a single blade, and thus are frequently depicted walking upon water or clouds, as they are in this example. They can become fierce, however, if a pure person is threatened by a malicious one. Size of largest: 8.3" Diameter x 3.5" H (21.1 cm x 8.9 cm)

Provenance: private Arlington, Texas, USA collection, acquired mid to late-1960s

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#178075

Fading to blue and forming dark / silver hues. Chips to glaze surface and pitting. Craquelure to glaze and some mineral encrustations.