dragon vase

dragon vase , 1800s, Joseon dynasty (1392–1910)

Where object was made: Korea

Material/technique: porcelain; glaze

Dimensions:
Object Height/Diameter (Height x Diameter): 36 x 28 cm
Object Height/Diameter (Height x Diameter): 14 3/16 x 11 in

Credit line: Promised gift of the Weare-West Family Trust

Accession number: PG2017.004

Not on display

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Porcelain jars painted with cobalt blue dragons were popular in Korea from the 17th through the 19th century. Many were used as flower vases in official court ceremonies. Originally associated with water, dragons were imperial emblems throughout East Asia. The two four-clawed dragons chasing flaming jewels on this vase embody the dynamic strength of the mythical beast. At the same time, the amusing rather than savage faces of the dragons reflect their auspicious character.