A CHINESE BLUE AND WHITE CHARGER, JIAJING PERIOD (1522-1566 AD)

The central design depicts a fisherman sailing his “sampan” on a river near a seven story pagoda surrounded by a mountainous landscape and pavilions. A scrolling floral motif between a double and single blue line decorates the rim of the dish. A band of flying cranes and floral motifs decorates the reverse rim. Fantastical mountainous river landscape themes on porcelain were particularly popular during the Ming dynasty (1368 – 1644). The “sampan” is the name for the most common type of traditional small boat in Chinese waters, constructed in a variety of designs. Here we see a small “sampan” with a mast and bamboo shelter. As these small boats were not strong enough to withstand the forces of the sea, fishermen would sail the rivers and stay relatively close to shore.
Diameter 43.3 cm.