Box with birds
Place of OriginJiangxi province, China
DynastyMing dynasty (1368-1644), Reign of the Jiajing emperor (1522-1566)
MaterialsPorcelain with underglaze-blue decoration
DimensionsH. 1 1/8 in x Diam. 4 in, H. 2.9 cm x Diam. 10.2 cm
Credit LineThe Avery Brundage Collection
Object numberB60P1710.a-.b
DepartmentChinese Art
ClassificationsCeramics
On View
Not on viewMarkingsJiajing mark, six-character mark in two columns
More InformationA pair of phoenixes are set in the center of this work amid cloud buds and bordered by five cranes on both sides. The lid and box are painted in a bright purplish tonality. Various boxes in rectangular, square, round, or other multi-sided shapes were produced for storing seal-ink, cosmetics, or candies. They increased in size during the Jiajing period; some have been found as large as 38 cm in diameter. Dragons, phoenixes, and cranesoften amidst in flowerscommonly adorned these boxes. The appearance of phoenixes here suggests that the piece was used for cosmetic material.
approx. 1800-1900
1736-1795