JAR

The quality of blue and white ceramic pieces reached its apex during the Ming Dynasty in China. This piece is a fine example of a blue and white jar, depicting a lotus motif, which is surrounding it's main body. The upper part, below the neck, shows typically Middle Eastern geometric designs. China's extensive international relations during said period, as in this case through the use of Middle Eastern motifs, are mirrored in it's ceramic pieces.

The application of brush strokes, for the designs of this jar was remarkable skillful. Additionally, the coloring effects, using the under glaze method, were evidently exquisitely controlled, while the different shadings of blue, were achieved without any accidental running or dripping. The blueish white milky color of the background is yet another characteristic of classical pieces from the era.