Annamese blue and white lidded box – Chu Dau pottery – Vietnam – 15th-16th century – Lê dynasty

Description

Authentic Vietnamese Chu Đậu porcelain lidded box in blue and white, manufactured in Vietnam during the Lê Dynasty, 15th-16th century.

The spherical box is painted in cobalt blue on a light grey background with a floral medallion on the lid and geometric and scroll motifs on the body. The decoration flows seamlessly from lid to body — characteristic of the free, expressive brushwork of the Chu Đậu potters. It is in remarkably good condition for its age, with minor signs of wear consistent with age and use.

Origin & meaning
Chu Đậu ceramics from Hải Dương province were the premier export product of Vietnam's Lê Dynasty. These small lidded jars were shipped as trade ceramics to Southeast Asia, Japan, and the Middle East – examples have been found in shipwrecks such as the Hoi An Hoard. They served as cosmetic or medicine containers, but also as status symbols in the maritime trading circles of the 15th and 16th centuries. Acquired via Van Spengen Auction House.

Dimensions
Diameter 8 cm · Height 5 cm