Large dragon jar decorated in underglaze blue

Description:

Korea, 19th cent.
H. 45,3 cm
Porcelain vases decorated in underglaze blue with dragons were very popular from the seventeenth to the nineteenth century. Many were used as flower vases at official court ceremonies. Originally associated with water, dragons were also imperial emblems throughout East Asia. The two four-clawed dragons chasing flaming jewels on this piece epitomise the dynamic power of the mythical animal. At the same time, dragons are seen as auspicious, inviting creatures; the pair shown here with their amusing faces reflect the idea that you do not always have to be afraid of them.
Old German private collection, collected before 2007 - Short crack at the mouth