Anfora

Amphora without lid made of porcelain with decoration under the cover of the type known as Blue and White. Both the base and the neck have a poly-lobed profile that extends into the body as slight indentations. Following the decorative schemes of the Ming dynasty (1368-1644), the piece is used as a support for an ornamentation of symbolic character based on vegetal and geometric elements. Thus both the foot and the neck and lip of the amphora are highlighted by decorative borders, from the schematization of the lotus flower, in poly-lobed reserves in the lower part, to the border of mushrooms of immortality on the shoulders, to finish with a geometric fretwork. The central body was intended for the development of the main theme of the object, in this case, lotus flowers with vegetal scrolls, without beginning or end, alluding to the essence of Buddhist thought.The overall design follows the conventions of the blue and white porcelain of the Ming dynasty (1368-1644), as if it were a synthesis of the most outstanding elements of each reign. However, the quality of the blue does not correspond to that used in this period, as well as the way of applying the color that does not respect the limits of the outline of the design.On the base the piece presents the drawing of a hare inserted in a blue line con- lined under the cover. The hare alludes to longevity since, according to legend, it partook of the elixir of life in its lunar abode. / (catalog no. 1992: 299)/ Bibliography: CERVERA FERNÁNDEZ, I.: “Amphora. Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). S. XX China”, in LÓPEZ GUZMÁN, R.; RUIZ GUTIÉRREZ, A.; SORROCHE CUERVA, M.A. (Scientific Coord.): Oriente en Granada (Exhibition Catalogue). Granada, 2008, pp.: 46