Imperial

Dragon 翔龍 Ming Dynasty 明 2249 Tankard with Lid 蓋杯 , 56cl, Ø9.5cm x 13cm x H14.5cm

2249

Craftsmanship in cloisonné reached its peak during the Jingtai period of the Ming dynasty. The fine filigree work and vibrant colours in this incense burner makes this item a precious piece in the Museum’s collection. The beautiful and unique sculpted dragon decorating the handles is highlighted and featured on the lidded pewter tankard. Swirling cloud motifs stand out against the plain pewter surface. The dragon is a symbol of power and prosperity while the cloud is said to represent luck and promotion.

錫鑞蓋杯把手作祥龍吐雲狀，靈感源於景泰藍爐精雕細刻的龍 形雙耳。捲雲繚舞於平滑柔光杯身上，營造突出視覺效果。 根據中華傳統文化，龍主權力和昌盛，雲則有平步青雲之意。

明朝景泰年間被視為景泰藍工藝的全盛期。就此故宮珍藏的掐絲 琺瑯番蓮紋龍耳爐所見，掐絲技術已臻化境，色彩鮮明豔麗，為 館藏中之極品。

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