Courtesy of the Harn Museum of Art, Photography by Randy Batista

Faceted Vase and Cover

Artist Unknown Chinese Artist

Date19th century

Made/manufacturedChina, Asia

MediumJade

Dimensions16 5/16 x 6 13/16 x 4 1/16 in. (41.4 x 17.3 x 10.3 cm)

ClassificationsFurnishings and Equipment

Credit LineBequest of Dr. David A. Cofrin

Object number2009.48.41

Collections

ASIAN

DescriptionCarved with archaistic motifs

Bernstein invoice description:
The characteristics of the carving, both incised and relief pattern-working on this jade vase emulate the style of Western Zhou bronzes. Under a rim with engraved key pattern the concave neck curves out to the shoulder. It is decorated with incised hanging leaves with sinuous outlines. Two archaistic open-work handles are attached to the neck and shoulder. Between the handles, on either side, there are two elephant heads from which hang loose rings. The belly is decorated in one wide register with chevrons, dots and stylized lingzhi as well as large and expressive taotie mask, framed by bands of repeating roundels. A flaring foot with concave profile ends in a square molding with key pattern. All of the decoration on the belly is in relief against a background of finely incised liewen. The conforming lid is rimed with a molding of key pattern and surmounted by a flat lozenge shaped finial. In our opinion, this vase is an excellent example of Qing period workmanship.