Jingdezhen ware porcelain exhibition opens

A Special Exhibition on Porcelains with Auspicious Animal Patterns Excavated from the Imperial Kiln Site in Jingdezhen recently opened at the Ledao Hall of Prince Kung's Palace Museum.

Themed around the rich cultural significance of "Fu" (blessings), the exhibition features 120 Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) porcelains adorned with auspicious animal motifs from the Jingdezhen Imperial Kiln Institute's collection. Besides the iconic dragon and phoenix designs, visitors can encounter a variety of mythological creatures and beasts, ranging from the majestic and lively to the endearingly adorable, reflecting traditional Chinese aspirations for peace and prosperity.

Highlights of the exhibits include rare imperial treasures like the blue-and-white cricket jar from the Xuande reign (1426-1435) and the ceramic jar with a Chinese character "Tian" (heaven) on the base from the Chenghua reign (1465-1487). Unique restored pieces also draw visitors' attention, including the Chenghua blue-and-white crane-neck vase with phoenix and flower motifs and the Chenghua tricolor duck-shaped incense burner, the latter being the prototype of the Jingdezhen Imperial Kiln Institute's official mascot.

A large Xuande blue-and-white plate (72.3 cm in diameter) is displayed at the center of the hall, featuring parrot pecking at peach motifs inspired by Tang Dynasty (618-907) poet Du Fu's verse, symbolizing vitality and harmonious living. A pair of green-glazed parrots dating to the Daoguang reign (1821-1850), from the museum's collection, complements the plate to add further depth to the narrative of auspicious symbolism.

A tactile experience enhances interactivity, as visitors can touch a fragment from a 580-year-old blue-and-white vat with dragon motifs. It's a rare opportunity to physically connect with the artistry of the imperial treasures.

Heading out of the exhibition hall, festive installations of the two organizers' mascots "Suisui Ya" duck in Ming attire and "Gong Xiaofu" carrying a scroll of "Fu" character are set in the courtyard, spreading best wishes for the upcoming Spring Festival.

The exhibition will run until Mar 30 (closed Mondays).