Lobed Vase

China, Jiangxi Province; Ming dynasty (1368–1644), Early 15th century (probably Xuande era, 1426-1435)
Porcelain painted with underglaze cobalt blue (Jingdezhen ware)
H. 7 1/2 x Diam. 5 1/4 in. (19.1 x 13.3 cm)
Asia Society, New York: Mr. and Mrs. John D. Rockefeller 3rd Collection, 1979.170

Provenance
John D. Rockefeller 3rd, New York, NY; acquired from John Sparks Ltd., London, 1964.
The Asia Society, New York, NY, bequest of John D. Rockefeller 3rd, New York, NY, 1979.

This unusual pomegranate-shaped vase is an example of Xuande-era (1426 - 1435) blue-and-white wares that were not produced for the court. While the overall composition of its decoration shows the accomplished use of space that characterizes Xuande porcelains, the quality of the painting does not match that found on imperial ware.