Ming Dynasty Jingdezhen Kiln Blue and White Porcelain Cup with Eight Precious Thing Pattern
A blue and white cup produced at a private kiln in Jingdezhen during the early Ming dynasty. It features a flaring lip, with the exterior adorned in underglaze blue Eight Treasures (Babao) and arabesque patterns.
During the Zhengtong to Tianshun periods (1436–1464), production at official kilns in Jingdezhen declined significantly due to warfare, while private kilns flourished. This shift led to a freer, more expressive style of decoration, unbound by the rigid standards of imperial production. The Eight Treasures, also known as the Eight Precious Things, are auspicious symbols originating from Buddhism and Taoism, representing prosperity, wisdom, and harmony. While this motif is commonly found on bowls and plates, its appearance on a cup is rare. In this example, the design has been simplified to four treasures, yet the small surface is meticulously drawn.
The cup has a few minor chips on the foot, and the well shows slight signs of ageing. Otherwise, it remains in good condition.
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