YUHUCHUN VASE, With underglaze copper red flowering plant design, Ming Dynasty (1368–1644 CE)

In the technique known as yūri-kō, many exceptional potters excelled, producing a wealth of high-quality works. Yūri-kō employs a glaze containing copper to create varying shades of red, resulting in a remarkably beautiful palette that is considered a significant decorative technique in ceramics. Typically, the bases for yūri-kō are often blue-and-white porcelain or white porcelain, chosen for their compatibility with this exquisite glaze.

This piece, a yu-huchun vase adorned with a floral design in yūri-kō on white porcelain, represents a form that first emerged during the Song Dynasty. As time progressed through the Yuan and Ming Dynasties, the shape evolved from sharp lines to a more softened silhouette.

Well-preserved, this vase is celebrated for its lively and playful brushwork, making it a captivating example of ceramic artistry. Such works continue to be cherished by many in contemporary times and are held in high esteem as fine art. A wooden box accompanies this piece.