Chen Mingyuan
Chinese, active 1650/1700
Lotus Cup
INV-2180
Chen Mingyuan
Chinese, active 1650/1700Qing dynasty (1644–1911), mid 17th/18th century
Chinese (culture or style)drinking vesselporcelain
Date
Qing dynasty (1644–1911), mid 17th/18th century
Medium
Yixing stoneware
Dimensions
5 × 8.3 × 7.3 cm (2 × 3 1/4 × 2 7/8 in.)
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Location
Chicago, IL
Credit
Bequest of Russell Tyson
The body of this cup is crafted to resemble a lotus leaf, which gracefully rests upon feet in the shape of lotus pods. Ingeniously, the stems of these pods extend from the cup’s base to its side, forming an artful yet functional handle. The surface of the cup is embellished with delicately carved patterns, which contribute to the overall sense of realism while showcasing the luscious color and texture of the Yixing stoneware. Bearing the seal of Chen Mingyuan, a renowned potter of Yixing stoneware active in the Kangxi period, this lotus-shaped cup exemplifies the artist’s celebrated talent for transforming clay into enchanting, lifelike wonders.
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