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Mallet vase with scene of warriors
Mallet vase with scene of warriors

Mallet vase with scene of warriors

Place of OriginJingdezhen, Jiangxi province, China; Jingdezhen, Jiangxi province
Date1662-1722
DynastyQing dynasty (1644-1911), Reign of the Kangxi emperor (1662-1722)
MaterialsPorcelain with overglaze multicolor decoration
DimensionsH. 29 1/2 in x Diam. 9 1/4 in, H. 74.9 cm x Diam. 23.5 cm
Credit LineThe Avery Brundage Collection
Object numberB60P1237
DepartmentChinese Art
ClassificationsCeramics
On View
On view
Location
  • Gallery Location   Gallery 17
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This unique vase is decorated with illustrations of fifty-six figures, the most ever seen on porcelain vessels of this type from the Kangxi period. The emperor is depicted at the center of the terrace, granting a commander’s seal to the noble Yang family (active eleventh century) before they go to battle. The elder general dressed in a red robe gives a deep bow at the low terrace as though receiving the seal. Both men and women of the Yang family fought frequent invasions by nomads from the northern frontier, making the family legendary for its patriotism and achievements. The female generals, standing in a group of six at the lower right of the terrace, are known as “shawled heroes.”
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Video: Kangxi Rouleau Vase with Women Warriors of the Yang Family (Part 1 of 2): http://youtu.be/FryvytioAYs
Video: Kangxi Rouleau Vase with Women Warriors of the Yang Family (Part 2 of 2): http://youtu.be/rZQTPUEuyhM

Robert Mowry, of Harvard University, discusses a Kangxi Mallet Vase in the Asian Art Museum's collection. A lecture presented by the Society for Asian Art on March 6, 2015.