Small vase 1660 - 1724

This delicate small vase, now held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, was crafted by an anonymous Chinese artist. Its creation is steeped in a history of cultural exchange and artistic tradition. The blue-and-white porcelain, a hallmark of Chinese ceramics, gained prominence during the Ming Dynasty and became a coveted export. Consider the socio-political context: China, a global power, exporting not just goods but also its aesthetic values. The vase, with its elegant form and refined decoration, embodies the cultural capital that China possessed. The still life depicted is both decorative and symbolic, and could be interpreted in many ways. Who was the intended audience, and how would they have read these symbols? As you observe this small vase, think about its journey through time and cultures. It serves as a reminder of the complex intersections of art, commerce, and cultural identity.