Bowl - Periodo Wanli / Chongzhen o Tardo Ming (circa 1573 – 1640 d.C.) - Porcelain

Bowl/cup on a small ring foot with a slightly irregular rim. The slightly irregular edge moulding and the height varying between 6.3 cm and 6.6 cm give the object its classic antique hand-turned craftsmanship. In the center, inside a double concentric blue circle and along the outer wall, are depicted auspicious symbols painted in cobalt blue.

- Era and Dynasty: Ming Dynasty (明朝) – Late Ming production (Wanli / Chongzhen or Late Ming Transition). Estimated period: End of the 16th century – first half of the 17th century (approximately 1573 – 1640 C.E.).

- The red wax seal (Jian Ding). The red wax seal affixed to the base is not an original factory mark from the period of the dynasty, but an export Chinese customs stamp, known as Jianding (鉴定).

Origin of the stamp: This seal was applied by the Chinese Cultural Relics Bureau from the mid-20th century (from the 1940s/1950s onward) to ancient objects destined for export to the West (often purchased in state Friendship Stores).

What it indicates: It certifies that the object has been formally authorized by Chinese authorities for exit from the country as exportable in accordance with the laws protecting artistic heritage.

This is blue-and-white porcelain produced in the popular Jingdezhen furnaces or in provincial southern Chinese kilns (such as Fujian/Swatow/Zhangzhou).

Iron spots / pinholes: Clearly visible small dark/black spots and pitting due to iron impurities in the clay surfacing during high-temperature firing.

Unglazed ring foot: Presence of firing sand/clay residues and the raw-edged foot rim slightly darkened, typical of firing in traditional kilns on sand supports.

Upper diameter: 17.6 cm

Height: about 6.3 – 6.6 cm

Base diameter: 7 cm

Condition: The piece is in generally good historical condition, considering its age. It shows the usual firing imperfections of the period, light surface wear. No restoration."