Artwork Description

Title/Description: Painted Cizhou "Galloping Horse" Plate, Chinese Ming Dynasty (1368-1644)

Origin: China, Ming Dynasty (1368-1644)
Material: Ceramic
Dimensions: Height: 6.5 cm, Diameter: 26.5 cm

Description:
This beautifully painted Cizhou plate from the Ming Dynasty is a striking example of Chinese ceramic artistry. It features a "Galloping Horse" motif, painted in bold dark and light brown tones. The central image depicts a dynamic galloping horse, set against a backdrop of stylized clouds. Surrounding the horse are additional decorative elements, including reishi mushrooms and blades of grass, all of which add to the richness of the design.

The plate has a classic Cizhou form, with light, rounded sides rising from short ringed feet to a concave edge. The entire surface is covered in a milky glaze, providing a smooth and lustrous finish. The design is framed by two circular lines around the rim, subtly enhancing the plate’s visual appeal.

Despite the passage of time, the plate remains in good condition with minor wear, firing defects, and a few small imperfections on the rim, which are consistent with its age and history.

Provenance:
This plate originates from an old private collection in France, as indicated by the presence of an old collector's label on the bottom.

Historical Significance:
The early painted Cizhou vessels, like this plate, were known for their modernist depictions of animals such as horses, deer, and tigers. These designs are believed to have influenced some of Pablo Picasso’s ceramic works. Such plates were once abundant in China but are now rare, particularly in public collections.

Bibliographic Comparison:
Similar Cizhou plates can be found in notable collections, such as the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, the Asian Art Museum in San Francisco, and the British Museum. Pieces from the Seligman collection are particularly recognized for their historical importance.

This plate is a wonderful example of the Ming Dynasty's ceramic artistry and is a rare and valuable piece of Chinese history, reflecting both aesthetic sophistication and cultural significance.