Vase with phoenix-shaped handles

Based on contemporary metalwork, this shape reflects the continued fashion of reviving classical bronze shapes in ceramic wares that had been prevalent since the Song. Much influenced by Zhejiang wares, Jiangxi potters recreated conventional celadon forms, like this piece whose shape and handles were similar to the longquan ware of the Song. The variation of shapes on qingbai ware included rectangular, rounded, animal-mask-shaped, curving openwork, and cloud-headed handles. This pair of phoenix-headed handles follows closely the traditional style. According to evidence from the wreck at Xin'an Bay, this type of vase supplied demands of the overseas market (Ministry of Culture and Information 1983: 76).