Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a large, lobed porcelain bowl featuring underglaze cobalt blue painting of alternating dragons and phoenixes chasing the flaming pearl. The underside bears an apocryphal six-character Xuande reign mark ('Da Ming Xuande Nian Zhi') enclosed within double blue circles.
Story
Ming dynasty Xuande porcelain set the global gold standard for cobalt blue, inspiring potters for over 500 years to recreate its iconic lotus-lobed shapes and mythical dragon motifs.
Maker / Origin
Produced by skilled studio artisans in the historic porcelain capital of Jingdezhen, China. Potters here have preserved imperial Ming and Qing throwing, fluting, and hand-painting techniques across generations.
Condition & Value
The bowl appears structurally sound with no visible rim chips or major fractures in the photos. Minor kiln grit, slight staining on the unglazed footrim, and typical small firing imperfections consistent with handcrafting. Excellent overall condition.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.