Page 170 - Decorative Arts, Part II: Far Eastern Ceramics and Paintings, Persian and Indian Rugs and Carpets

1942.9-605 (C-456)
Baluster Vase

Qing dynasty, Kangxi period (1662-1722)
Porcelain withfamille verte enamels on the biscuit, 43.2 (17)
Widener Collection

INSCRIPTIONS
Spuriously inscribed in standard script on the base in under-
glaze red in two columns of three characters each: Da Ming
Chenghua nian zhi [made in the Chenghua reign of the great
Ming dynasty]

TECHNICAL NOTES
The vase was thrown in two sections and luted together at the
widest point. The raised band around the neck is a result of the
body above and below having been shaved down with a sharp
tool as it turned on the wheel. The interior and the recessed
base are coated with a thin glaze. A large chip in the shoulder
has been repaired and repainted.

PROVENANCE
J. Pierpont Morgan [1837-1913], New York. (Duveen Brothers,
New York and London); sold 1915 to Peter A. B. Widener,
Lynnewood Hall, Elkins Park, Pennsylvania; inheritance from
Estate of Peter A. B. Widener by gift through power of appoint-
ment of Joseph E. Widener, Elkins Park, Pennsylvania.

HE VASE is DECORATED with rocks, blossoming plum
Ttrees, bamboo, pine, and birds against a dark green
enamel ground. The painting includes colorless, yellow,
aubergine, and three shades of green enamel.
SL

REFERENCES
1904-1911 Morgan: 2: 64, no. 1227, pi. 101.

154 D E C O R A T I V E A R T S