Teapot

Object NameTeapot

Date19th century

OriginChina

MediumPorcelain with black-painted decoration

Dimensions4 1/2 × 7 7/8 × 3 15/16 in. (11.4 × 20 × 10 cm)

ClassificationsDecorative Arts, Ceramics

Credit LineGift of Ann and Henry Brunnier. In the Ann and Henry Brunnier Collection, Brunnier Art Museum, University Museums, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa.

Object number2.2.87ab

Status

Not on view

Collections

CultureChinese

Label TextIt was reported in 1722 that the Chinese were experimenting with painting in black on ceramics, however, they had so far been unsuccessful. Black, or schwarzlot, decoration originated in Europe, and was specifically being used by the German Hausmaler on imported white Chinese porcelain. The perfection of the technique in China came later in the eighteenth century. This teapot features two usual motifs used on China trade porcelains. The Laub-und-Bandelwerk border originated in Germany and typically included elements such as strapwork, trelliswork, quilting and scrolls. Another common motif was the peacock, taken from the Greek mythological story of Hera, queen of the gods. According to the story, Hera requested a personal favor of Argus, a giant with a hundred eyes, which tragically resulted in his death. To honor her friend, Hera placed his hundred eyes on the tail of the peacock, her favorite animal. This teapot features the commonly depicted peacock and Laub-und-Bandelwerk quilted border hand-painted in black.

PeriodQing Dynasty

Locations