Tankard c. 1635 - 1650

This ceramic tankard of unknown date was created by an anonymous artist. Its blue decorative elements stand out sharply against the stark white of the porcelain. The cylindrical form of the tankard is divided into horizontal bands. These organize the surface and frame the narrative scene wrapped around the body. The cobalt blue drawings depict a traditional Chinese landscape. There is a figure in flowing robes, stylized mountains, and cloud formations. The precision and detail of the brushwork are particularly striking. Note how the artist uses varying line weights to create depth and texture. This juxtaposition of the functional, Western form of a tankard with traditional Chinese motifs suggests a fascinating interplay between cultural exchange and artistic adaptation. The careful composition and the tension between form and decoration make this piece a testament to the fluid boundaries of art and culture.