Page 237 - Decorative Arts, Part II: Far Eastern Ceramics and Paintings, Persian and Indian Rugs and Carpets

483)
1942.9.632 (C
Baluster Vase

Qing dynasty, Kangxi period (1662-1722)
Porcelain with overglaze famille verte enamels,
77.3 x 28.6 (3(3 7/16 X 11 1/4)
Widener Collection

TECHNICAL NOTES
The foot-ring is rounded, and the base recessed and glazed. The
interior is glazed. A long crack runs up from the foot, curves
around the side, and goes back down to the foot; it has been
repaired and inpainted.

PROVENANCE
Thomas B. Clarke [1848-1931], New York; sold to Peter A. B.
Widener, Lynnewood Hall, Elkins Park, Pennsylvania; inheri-
tance from Estate of Peter A. B. Widener by gift through power
of appointment of Joseph E. Widener, Elkins Park, Pennsylvania.

H^His TALL VASE is decorated with scenes of warriors in
1 famille verte enamels (aubergine, blue, red, gold, and
three shades of green) over a colorless glaze. The main
body depicts a landscape with a group of warriors on
horseback chasing a second group, while bearded atten-
dants watch from the background. Several of the warriors
are women, suggesting that the scene comes from the
fourteenth-century novel Shui hu zhuan by Shi Nai'an,
which is replete with female rebel leaders and takes place
at the end of the Northern Song dynasty (early twelfth
century).1 At the base of the neck is a horizontal band with
a starburst diaper pattern. Above, on the neck, are three
more horse-mounted warriors and two attendants on foot
carrying large banners.
SL

NOTES
i. For a translation of this novel, see Shi 1968.

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