Dimensions: Height 39,5 cm Wide 19 cm Depth 19 cm

Weight: 1941 grams

Elegantly potted porcelain vase of olive-shaped form with a broad rounded body rising to a tall flaring neck and everted rim. Finely decorated in underglaze cobalt blue and copper-red with two five-clawed dragons soaring amidst clouds above turbulent waves crashing against rocky outcrops. The dragons are rendered in vibrant underglaze red with carefully detailed scales and flowing manes, set against a blue-washed cloud-filled sky. The base bears a six-character Yongzheng seal mark in underglaze blue.

The present vase draws inspiration from celebrated imperial porcelains of the Yongzheng reign (1723–1735), during which the combination of underglaze cobalt blue and copper-red decoration reached an exceptional level of refinement. The decoration depicts powerful dragons traversing the heavens amidst clouds and flames above a stylised sea, a motif deeply associated with imperial authority and cosmic order.

Particular attention has been paid to the contrast between the rich copper-red dragons and the atmospheric blue cloud formations, creating a striking visual effect. The dragons are depicted with expressive features, flowing whiskers and finely articulated scales, while the lower section is enriched with waves and rockwork symbolising the mythical Eastern Sea.

The olive-shaped silhouette, with its swelling body and elegantly flared neck, derives from eighteenth-century court prototypes and became a popular form for displaying auspicious dragon imagery. The underglaze-blue Yongzheng seal mark on the base reflects the continued admiration for Yongzheng imperial wares during later Qing production.

Combining dynamic dragon decoration with the technically demanding blue-and-red palette, this vase is an impressive example of Qing-style porcelain inspired by the finest traditions of the imperial kilns at Jingdezhen.