Preliminary identification
Photo reference
4 uploaded photos
Overview
A large polychrome porcelain charger painted in the traditional wucai (five-color) palette, depicting a dragon chasing a flaming pearl above swirling green waves and swimming fish, framed by intricate floral diaper borders. A six-character horizontal mark reading 'Da Ming Wanli Nian Zhi' is inscribed in underglaze blue along the inner rim panel.
Story
Legend says a carp swimming up the Yellow River transforms into a dragon upon leaping the Dragon Gate. This vibrant plate celebrates that ancient Chinese metaphor for perseverance and ultimate scholarly success.
Maker / Origin
Produced by skilled kilns in Jingdezhen, China's historic porcelain capital. During the late Qing and Republic eras, potters revived classic Ming Dynasty Wanli wucai designs, paying homage to the golden age of multi-color imperial wares with apocryphal reign marks.
Condition & Value
Appears in good structural condition with expected manufacturing artifacts including iron spots, glaze pinholes, and typical surface wear to the enamel. The unglazed base shows authentic kiln adhesion marks and dirt patina. Sound condition preserves decorative value well.
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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.