Cup with Stylized Fruit: Plums, Cherries, Melon, and Seeds
Qing dynasty (1644–1911), Kangxi reign mark and period (1662–1722)
Medium
Porcelain painted with overglaze enamels
Dimensions
5.1 × 9.7 cm (2 × 3 13/16 in.); Diam.: 9.7 cm (3 13/16 in.)
Classification
drinking vessel
Department
Arts of Asia
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
42366
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
Delicately painted fruits and seeds in soft pastel hues enhance the clear-glazed interior of this crimson-sheathed cup, one of a set. While the peaches on this cup symbolizes longevity, the abundantly seeded plum, cherry, and melon-like fruit convey wishes for numerous offspring. This auspicious message is further emphasized through stylized, free-floating seeds that fill the spaces between the fruits.
About the Artist
Unknown
The artist designated as "Unknown" in our virtual museum's collection exemplifies a poignant chapter in art history: creators whose identities have faded into obscurity despite the enduring power of their work. With only one known artwork attributed to them in our holdings, this figure represents countless anonymous hands that shaped visual culture across centuries. Museums worldwide, including th...