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Baluster Jar and Cover

1600–1650
(1644–1911)
Porcelain with wucai (five-color) enamels
Overall: 36.8 x 23.8 cm (14 1/2 x 9 3/8 in.)
Nancy F. and Joseph P. Keithley Collection Gift 2020.179
Location: not on view
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Description

The central motif on this jar is a mountain emerging from the sea, symbolizing Mount Sumeru in Buddhist cosmology, and representing the central axis in the universe in Daoism. White cherry blossoms floating on the wavy ground are surrounded by auspicious symbols such as the coin for wealth and the lozenge for victory. The yellow knob on the jar’s cover depicts a cherry blossom. Other fortuitous motifs—such as the leaf of protection, the pearl to grant wishes, the stone chime for celebration, rocks symbolizing longevity—also decorate the lid. While most jars have lost their covers over time, this jar retains its original lid.
Baluster Jar and Cover

Baluster Jar and Cover

1600–1650

China, Jiangxi province, Jingdezhen kilns, Ming dynasty (1368–1644) or Qing dynasty (1644–1911)

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