17th century Chinese Transitional blue and white 'Phoenix and Peony' porcelain bowl

A significant Chinese porcelain bowl decorated in underglaze cobalt blue, featuring a phoenix among lush peonies, characteristic of the Transitional period (mid-17th century).

Chinese Blue and White 'Phoenix and Peony' Bowl

Deep bowl / Basin

Porcelain with underglaze cobalt blue pigment

Good antique condition

The main register features a large phoenix (Fenghuang) with an elaborate crest and flowing tail feathers, surrounded by oversized peony blossoms and dense, scrolling foliage. The ground is indicated by characteristic V-shaped grass strokes.

A deep-sided porcelain bowl with a slightly flared rim and a short, straight foot. The exterior is painted in vibrant shades of underglaze blue.

• •Main view showing the phoenix and floral arrangement

• •Minor 'mushikui' (moth-eaten) fritting along the rim, typical of this period
• •Slight glaze contractions (pinholes) visible in the white ground
• •Minor surface scratches consistent with age and use

A definitive dating would be aided by an inspection of the base and foot rim construction, which are not visible in the provided image.

Transitional Period (c. 1640–1660)

• •V-shaped grass strokes on the ground are a hallmark of mid-17th century Jingdezhen wares
• •The specific rendering of the phoenix eye and the 'heaped and piled' effect of the cobalt
• •Double-line borders at the rim and foot
• •Bold, painterly style typical of the Chongzhen to early Kangxi transition

The style aligns closely with wares produced during the late Ming to early Qing transition, often referred to as 'Transitional' porcelain, known for its high-quality cobalt and freehand brushwork.

• •None immediately visible; however, high-quality 19th-century 'Kangxi Revival' pieces can sometimes mimic this style

While this style is heavily reproduced, the depth of the blue and the specific 'V' grass motifs suggest an authentic 17th-century origin rather than a modern copy.

No reign mark is visible. Transitional pieces frequently lack marks or feature apocryphal Ming marks.

• •Natural variation in cobalt blue intensity (shading)
• •Period-appropriate rim fritting (mushikui)
• •Hand-painted irregularities in the foliage and petals
• •Correct stylistic representation of the phoenix for the 17th century

The phoenix (Fenghuang) and peony (Mudan) together represent the 'king of birds' and 'king of flowers,' symbolizing a wish for prosperity, high status, and a happy marriage.

This type of ware was produced both for the domestic Chinese market and for export to Europe (via the Dutch East India Company), where it was highly prized.

Transitional period blue and white is highly sought after by collectors for its artistic freedom and the superior quality of the porcelain body and cobalt used during this era.

This estimate is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a formal appraisal. Market values fluctuate based on auction venue and buyer demand.

• •Intensity and 'heaping' of the cobalt blue
• •Overall size (larger basins command higher prices)
• •Condition of the rim and presence/absence of cracks
• •Provenance and exhibition history

• •Similar Transitional phoenix bowls have achieved between $4,000 and $8,000 at Tier 1 and Tier 2 auction houses (Christie's, Sotheby's, Bonhams) depending on size and condition.
• •Smaller or damaged examples typically fetch $1,500 - $2,500.

• •Examine the base for kiln grit or a potential mark
• •Inspect the bowl under UV (blacklight) to check for professional restorations or hidden cracks
• •Consult a specialist in Chinese ceramics for a physical inspection

• •Handle with clean, dry hands to avoid oil transfer
• •Clean only with lukewarm water and a mild, pH-neutral detergent if necessary
• •Display in a stable environment away from high-traffic areas to prevent accidental impact

A high-quality 17th-century Chinese Transitional blue and white bowl featuring classic phoenix and peony motifs, exhibiting the vibrant cobalt and skilled brushwork prized by collectors of this period.

• •Chinese Ceramics Department at Sotheby's or Christie's
• •Independent appraisers specializing in Ming and Qing dynasty porcelain