Page 229 - Chinese porcelains collected by Mr. and Mrs. Charles P. Taft, Cincinnati, Ohio, by John Getz

CHINESE PORCELAINS

No. 67

Cylindrical Water-holder, with arched rim and curved spout springing
from dragon's mouth, the decoration "sur biscuit" in the three colors

prevailing during the Ming dynasty.

A perfect cylindrical form, divided into three sections by raised triple-corded bands

in light amber-colored glaze that, hoop-like, encircle the body.
TTie upper band and the next lowest have two affixed grotesque lion-masks, with

holes (intended for a handle), and these three divisions so formed are uniformly decorated,
on light transparent green ground, showing finely outlined spiral formations in black,
that, with dashing sprays of water, suggest a whirlwind; various symbolic attributes,
blossoms, and leaves are superposed on this ground, together with horses that are
strongly defined in aubergine and light-amber glaze: the animals are doubtless driven
into action by the turbulent elements suggested in the design ; they probably represent the

legendary steeds of the Emperor Muh-wang, who ascended the throne 001 1 B.C. (the
legends state that he set his famous horses loose after many and long journeys). The

expression of acrion, marked by such simplicity in drawing, together with the calli-
graphic vitality in touch, suggests their derivation from an artist (possibly Chao Meng-

fu) of the Sung dynasty, who was noted for the painting of these horses.
The shield-like projection on the top is decorated on the outside with a separate

motive including a bird and other details picked out in yellow and aubergine on the
green ground.

The foot is in biscuit and is of characteristic quality.
Era of Ch'eng-hua (1465-1487), Ming dynasty.

Height, 16^ 4 inches.

Diameter, 5 2 inches.
'

'89