description David Vases Overview
The David Vases are a pair of Chinese blue-and-white porcelain temple vases dated by an inscription to 1351 CE, during the Yuan dynasty. They are named after Sir Percival David, who acquired them and whose foundation later loaned them to the British Museum. Featuring dragon handles and elaborate elephant, dragon, and floral motifs, the vases provide crucial insight into the development of Chinese porcelain production. Because of their exact dating, they serve as a primary benchmark for authenticating and dating other Yuan dynasty ceramics.
insights Ranking position
David Vases ranks #1 of 83 in the Vase ranking, ahead of Medici Vase.
help David Vases FAQ
What makes the David Vases so important in Chinese art?
The David Vases are considered the most important surviving examples of Chinese blue-and-white porcelain from the Yuan dynasty. Dated to 1351 CE by an inscription, they act as a crucial benchmark for dating other historical ceramics.
Where did the David Vases get their name?
They are named after Sir Percival David, a prominent British collector who acquired the vases in the 20th century. His foundation later loaned them permanently to the British Museum, where they are currently displayed.
What do the inscriptions on the David Vases say?
The inscriptions on the necks of the vases state that they were offered as a gift to a Daoist temple by a man named Zhang Wenjin in 1351. The text provides the exact date and context of their creation, which is incredibly rare for ceramics of that era.
What do the David Vases look like?
The vases are tall and feature elaborate dragon handles attached to their upper sections. Their white porcelain bodies are intricately painted with cobalt blue designs, including dragons, floral scrolls, and phoenixes.
explore Explore More
Similar to David Vases
See all arrow_forward
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
