Blue and white fish and algae pattern large jar

Total Height: 26.5 cm Bottom Diameter: 19.5 cm Top Diameter: 19.5 cm This jar has a straight mouth, short neck, ample shoulders, and a bulging belly that gradually tapers inward at the lower abdomen. Both the interior and exterior are glazed, giving it a sturdy and dignified appearance. The jar wall is relatively thick, and the unglazed foot at the bottom, known as "底露胎" (diluotai), is a characteristic foot style unique to the Yuan Dynasty. The body of the jar is adorned with four large fish and numerous small fish swimming amidst aquatic plants such as waterweed, coin grass, and locust leaves. The blue and white fish and algae pattern became popular during the Yuan Dynasty, and by the Ming Jiajing period, the brushwork became more delicate, depicting a lively and detailed style that gained widespread recognition. The four types of fish, namely sardine, catfish, carp, and mandarin fish, symbolize the auspicious meanings of "clearness, purity, and integrity" in homophonic terms, representing a portrayal of the popular four-word auspicious saying. The artist employed a technique of using fine strokes for outlining and broad strokes for coloring, creating a realistic and detailed portrayal. The fish are depicted singly or in pairs, swimming with heads lowered and tails raised as if diving, or with heads up as if swimming in a circle. The portrayal captures the fish from various angles, with the heads, bodies, and dorsal fins depicted in a side view, the abdomen slightly angled for an upward perspective, and the tails depicted from above. The scales are marked by intersecting diagonal lines or curved lines, with detailed markings on the fin and tail using a fine brush. The head and back of the fish are colored darker, creating a contrast with the lighter belly and dorsal fin, enhancing the three-dimensional effect from different viewing angles. The composition is complemented by lotus leaves, lotus pods, aquatic plants, and other varied-length, straight, and curved supplementary decorations. The neck of the jar is adorned with a wave pattern, a popular decorative motif on ceramics and metalware during the Song and Yuan periods. Purchase Guidelines: All items in our store are collectibles aged over ten years. Over time, there may be signs of aging, such as oxidation, paint loss, or scratches, which are considered normal. If you seek perfection, we recommend careful consideration before purchasing. We strive to provide detailed descriptions and current photos, and we encourage buyers to assess the value of the items themselves. Antique items are sold without a warranty or trial period, and returns or exchanges are not accepted after the sale. The packaging, including brocade boxes or paper cartons, may show signs of age such as dust accumulation, loose threads, or aging. If this is unacceptable, we kindly request refraining from placing an order. Thank you for your understanding. #All items in this store are unique. If you have any doubts about the current photos, please refrain from placing an order. There is no product available for exchange service. #The dimensions are measured manually, so please forgive any slight discrepancies.