Cup with Dragon and Clouds
Unknown Artist
1522–66
Medium
porcelain with incised decoration and white glaze
Dimensions
h. 5.8 cm · diam. 7.2 cm
Classification
Ceramic
Department
Chinese Art
Museum
Cleveland Museum of Art
Credit
Severance and Greta Millikin Collection
Accession Number
1964.176
About this artwork
In the Ming dynasty (1368–1644), luxury items became more affordable to larger parts of the society, including women, merchants, and literati in non-official positions. Imperial patronage and a growing urban population encouraged consumption of luxury goods and local craftmanship. This small white bell-shaped cup illustrates the advanced porcelain techniques and the creative mind of the talented artisan who sought clients on a competitive market.