Porcelain vase owned by the Tang Family. Photo by Tom Ocken.
Porcelain vase owned by the Tang Family. Photo by Tom Ocken.
The vase shown above is one of two pieces selected by the Tang family for
possible inclusion in the museum's online exhibit. We liked them so much
that we're including both here. Both pieces reflect the continuation of
Chinese artistic themes into modern times. The next two photos show details
of the vase, which is 22 inches (56 cm) tall.
Detail from the porcelain vase. Photo by T. Ocken.
An additional detail from the porcelain vase. Photo by T. Ocken.
The second item chosen by the family, a serving platter, features a dragon.
In Chinese culture, dragons are symbols of beneficial power and good fortune.
Serving platter with a five-toed dragon. Photo by T. Ocken.
In the past, dragons with five toes (such as the one on the platter) were
associated with imperial rule. Today, of course, anyone can lay claim to
a five-toed dragon! In the close-up provided below, the dragon's five
toes are readily apparent. The platter measures 12 inches (31 cm) across.
The dragon's five toes. Photo by T. Ocken.
See source code for photo credits and copyright information. Page last revised on August 19, 2015. Please report problems to toh@unm.edu