Bidspirit auction | Yuan Dynasty, Blue-and-White Dragon Jar

Yuan Dynasty, Blue-and-White Dragon Jar - A classic Yuan-dynasty large jar form: flared rim, short neck, full shoulders, generously proportioned body tapering to a solid foot — bold and substantial, with rounded, expansive lines and commanding presence. The body is dense and well-fired; the glaze is luminous white with soft celadon undertones. Underglaze blue decoration is laid in distinct strata: rich tones feature iron-rust flecks fused deep into the body, while diffused areas dissolve in misty, atmospheric washes of deep indigo — suffused with ancient grace. Neck encircled by scrolling foliage with gracefully curving branches and delicate blossoms, spaced with elegant restraint. Dominating shoulder and body is a majestic dragon coiling across the vessel: powerful body, densely scaled hide, streaming manes, and five sharply splayed claws advancing through billowing clouds and flames — head raised in noble authority, rendered with vigorous, assured brushwork capturing both likeness and spirit. Below, peonies in full bloom unfurl in layered splendour amid intertwining vines, luxuriant and opulent. Near the foot runs a border of stylized lotus petals linked in sequence, each enclosing a cloud scroll in precise, orderly arrangement. Exposed foot reveals clean, dry body with faint natural fissures enhancing its antique character. Decoration and painting style closely match the Yuan blue-and-white dragon jar preserved in the Palace Museum (Beijing), accession no. Xin 00196642 — sharing identical period traits and artistic manner. A rare and exemplary surviving Yuan blue-and-white dragon jar of the highest calibre.