Sleeve vase c. 1635 - 1650

This ‘sleeve vase’ was made in China, most likely during the Kangxi period of the Qing dynasty, using porcelain and cobalt oxide underglaze. It is decorated with blue painting that depicts people and landscape. The design on the vase reflects both traditional Chinese aesthetics and the social dynamics of the time. The imagery of figures in a landscape could represent a popular narrative or a scene from classical literature, reflecting the cultural values of the educated elite. The use of blue and white porcelain was highly developed during the Qing dynasty and became a significant export commodity, revealing global trade networks. The high demand for these types of wares shaped artistic production, often tailoring imagery to appeal to foreign markets. Understanding this vase requires looking into the history of Chinese ceramics, Qing dynasty culture, and global trade routes. It becomes a window into a complex interplay of social, economic, and artistic forces.