Rare Mid‑Ming Blue & White Porcelain Water‑Floating Sinan (Maritime Compass) - Ming Dynasty (1368-1644)
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Description from the seller
Extremely rare Chinese blue‑and‑white porcelain water‑floating Sinan, a maritime compass deployed on ancient Chinese sailing vessels, dating to the mid‑Ming period circa 1430‑1500.
Drum‑shaped body with central concave reservoir intended to hold water for floating the magnetized needle. The top surface is decorated with under‑glaze blue prunus scroll patterns. Moulded beaded serrated rims run along upper and lower edges. The outer wall is painted with simple stylised floral motifs. Unglazed sandy base bears original spiral wheel‑cutting traces of hand‑finishing.
Surviving water‑floating Sinan artefacts are highly scarce. This piece represents tangible physical evidence for ancient Chinese nautical technology and Maritime‑Silk‑Road history, a folk‑kiln practical navigation implement for ship‑board use.
Dimensions
Diameter: 7.7 cm
Height: 3.5 cm
Condition Report
Overall complete. Wear present on the beaded serrated rims from historical use, minor surface scratches and age‑related glaze wear. No chips, no penetrating cracks, no restoration. Please refer to all photos for full condition details.
Extremely rare Chinese blue‑and‑white porcelain water‑floating Sinan, a maritime compass deployed on ancient Chinese sailing vessels, dating to the mid‑Ming period circa 1430‑1500.
Drum‑shaped body with central concave reservoir intended to hold water for floating the magnetized needle. The top surface is decorated with under‑glaze blue prunus scroll patterns. Moulded beaded serrated rims run along upper and lower edges. The outer wall is painted with simple stylised floral motifs. Unglazed sandy base bears original spiral wheel‑cutting traces of hand‑finishing.
Surviving water‑floating Sinan artefacts are highly scarce. This piece represents tangible physical evidence for ancient Chinese nautical technology and Maritime‑Silk‑Road history, a folk‑kiln practical navigation implement for ship‑board use.
Dimensions
Diameter: 7.7 cm
Height: 3.5 cm
Condition Report
Overall complete. Wear present on the beaded serrated rims from historical use, minor surface scratches and age‑related glaze wear. No chips, no penetrating cracks, no restoration. Please refer to all photos for full condition details.
Details
Dynastic Style/Period
Ming Dynasty (1368-1644)
Title of artwork
Rare Mid‑Ming Blue & White Porcelain Water‑Floating Sinan (Maritime Compass)
Condition
Good condition
Authenticity
Original/official
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