Small Cup with Three Qi-dragon Handles
Artist
Chinese
Dateearly 17th century, Ming Dynasty (1368–1644)
Mediummottled tan nephrite
Dimensions4.1 cm (1 5/8 in.)
ClassificationsJades
Credit LineBequest of Mrs. Harry W. Goddard, in memory of Harry W. Goddard
Terms
Object number1938.62
DescriptionSmall globular cup with three animal handlesLabel TextSmall Cup with Three Qi-dragon Handles Nephrite; Ming dynasty (1368 - 1644), early 17th century Bequest of Mrs. Harry W. Goddard, in memory of Harry W. Goddard, 1938.62 Young, hornless qi dragons with branched tails first appeared in works of the Han dynasty (206 BCE - 220 CE). They can further be traced back to the animal motifs on metal artworks of the steppe nomads along China's western borders. From the 12th century onwards qi dragons were a popular archaistic motif, as shown here often forming the handles of vessels, or playfully chasing each other or jewels.
On View
On view
Chinese
18th century, Qing Dynasty (1644–1911)
Chinese
early 18th century, Qing Dynasty (1644–1911)
Chinese
late 18th century, Qing dynasty (1644–1911)