Bowl
Object NameBowl
OriginJapan
MediumCeramic
Dimensions2 3/4 × 3 7/8 in. diameter (7 × 9.8 cm)
ClassificationsDecorative Arts, Ceramics
Credit LineGift of W. Allen Perry estate. In the permanent collection, Brunnier Art Museum, University Museums, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa.
Object numberUM90.29
Status
Not on viewCollections
CultureJapanese
Label TextThe highly traditional Chinese imagery of this bowl features the dragon with a flaming pearl. Symbolically, the dragon chasing though the clouds after a flaming jewel causes thunder and rain and represents the divine power of cosmic regeneration. The dragons, depicted with five claws, are symbols implying an association with the imperial family.
Enameling has been developing in China since the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). The most predominant enameling technique used by the Chinese to decorate metalwork is cloisonne. Enamel is powdered glass and pigment mixed within small wire cells, providing the artist greater control over the medium, then fired. Although their brilliance of color and gilding never enjoyed widespread popularity in China, cloisonne wares did find admirers among the upper class, some religious institutions, and the imperial court, whose patronage endured throughout the Ming Dynasty and later Qing Dynasty (1644-1912).
StyleImari
Locations
- (not entered) Iowa State University, Brunnier Main Storage
Object Name: Tiles on Fireplace
Moravian Pottery and Tile Works
1925
Object number: U88.76
Object Name: Tea Service
S.C. Younge & Co. Silversmiths
c. 1821-1826
Object number: 4.8.6a-e
Object Name: Stand, Incense Burner, Lid, and Hood
19th century
Object number: 2.3.25abc
