2012.91.83, celadon ewer; Jin dynasty (A.D. 1115–1234).
Eason Eige collection; photo by B. Bernard.
The rooster head spout on this celadon ewer alludes to the Chinese word for rooster, which in turn serves as a pun for the word "luck." The lotus blossom traced around the body of the vessel has several positive meanings in Chinese tradition. Thus, on this vessel as on so many others, what may seem like mere decorative elements to Westerners are in fact rich with meaning.
The ewer is 9 1/2 inches (24 cm) tall. For a closer look at the ewer,
from a different angle, please click
here. You can see a different rooster
head ewer
on this page.
To learn more: Chinese Glazes by Nigel Wood.
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