Wanli kraak porcelain dish with lion motif - Ming dynasty (1573-1620)

Description

Monumental Wanli kraak porcelain dish with lion motif, from the Ming dynasty (1573-1620). An impressive example of Chinese export porcelain with powerful cobalt decor and refined symmetry.

This large blue and white platter is decorated with a lively lion in the central medallion, surrounded by compartments with floral and geometric motifs in typical ‘kraak’ decor. The decoration is executed in bright cobalt blue with exceptionally fine brushwork. The rim shows some small glaze chips, common for the type, but otherwise the dish is in almost excellent condition.

Origin & meaning
Made in Jingdezhen, China, during the reign of Emperor Wanli (1573-1620). Crackling porcelain like this was manufactured for export to Europe through the Dutch East India Company (VOC) and was treasured in Dutch interiors as early as the 17th century. This specimen is a rare large format with a powerful animal motif - a symbol of courage and protection in Chinese imagery.
Purchased from Rob Michiels Auctions, Bruges.

Dimensions & condition
Diameter 35.8 cm; height 6.5 cm.
Nearly excellent condition, with some typical edge chips. UV-verified.