172 - A BLUE AND WHITE DRAGON GU VASE, CHINA, MING DYNASTY

A BLUE AND WHITE DRAGON GU VASE, CHINA, MING DYNASTY Dimensions: Height 28,1 cm Wide 19 cm Depth 19 cm Weight: 2422 grams A tall blue-and-white porcelain vase of gu form, with a spreading foot, waisted central section and trumpet-shaped neck rising to a broad flared mouth. Painted in underglaze cobalt, the decoration is arranged in horizontal registers: scrolling floral branches occupy the neck, while a striding dragon appears prominently around the central body amid clouds and ornamental bands. The brushwork varies between strong dark outlines and softer washes, giving the surface a lively rhythm. The gu shape derives ultimately from ancient bronze ritual vessels, but in porcelain it became a highly decorative form whose widening neck and foot created natural zones for painted ornament. Dragon imagery added another layer of meaning, its vigorous movement contrasting with the strict geometry of the vessel. The interior of the foot is stated to bear a six-character Wanli mark within a double circle. Whether viewed as an archaistic form or as a vehicle for Ming-style blue-and-white painting, the vase is especially effective in the way shape and decoration reinforce one another.