Chinese Ming Ko-sometsuke Small Blue and White Dish

Chinese transitional ko-sometsuke blue and white plate made during the reign of the Emperor Tianqi, made for the for Japanese market at Jingdezhen.
This 17th century ware was a much needed source of income for bankrupt court and Empire of the late Ming dynasty and incorporated deliberate firing and potting faults.  The Japanese valued the authentic organic look for items to be used and wanted faults and all for this reason on the pieces for  the tea ceremony which is where this small plate would have been destined for.
It is painted to the centre with a pair of 'flying horses' above rocky grass land. in Chinese culture the horse represented speed and endurance while in the Shinto religion of Japan they were the messengers between heaven and earth.

For a similar dish see trade Taste and transformation Jingdezhen Porcelain for japan by Julia Curtis 1620-1645 - Dish 54 page 78
 

Dimensions

This object is eligible for a Certificate of BADA Provenance

Condition report

Stock number