Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
A large, flat-sided ceramic moonflask featuring a deep cobalt blue slip ground with incised white decoration depicting a powerful five-clawed imperial dragon amidst clouds. The shoulders are adorned with stylized chilong dragon handles, and the neck bears an apocryphal six-character Xuande reign mark reading 'Da Ming Xuan De Nian Zhi'.
Story
Centuries of imperial desire are captured on this flask. The design mimics the legendary Xuande period, when emperors obsessed over cobalt blue. This piece was created to evoke that golden age of Chinese porcelain.
Maker / Origin
While bearing the mark of the Ming Dynasty's Xuande Emperor (who ruled from 1425 to 1435), this flask was crafted by later artisans in Jingdezhen, the porcelain capital of the world. These potters were masters of historicism, recreating ancient imperial treasures for a booming global market of collectors.
Condition & Value
The flask shows minor glaze pitting, surface scratches, and kiln dust inclusions consistent with its firing process. There is some light wear on the unglazed base, but no major visible cracks or chips on the body or handles. Good overall condition.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
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.