Imperial Dragon Tea Bowl in Yellow and Iron-Red
Ceramic vessel, decorative art • Unknown mass-production ceramic factory, potentially Jingdezhen or similar Chinese manufacturing center
Style & Movement
Chinoisere / Contemporary reproduction of Qing Dynasty Imperial style
Medium & Technique
Glazed porcelain with overglaze iron-red transfer-print Decoration
Creation Period
Late 20th to early 21st century (modern production)
Dimensions & Format
Small handheld format; estimated height 5-7 cm, diameter 8-10 cm. Circular tondo-style base with foot ring.
Subject Description
Central motif of a five-clawed imperial dragon chasing the flaming pearl among stylized clouds. The rim features a scalloped, foliate design imitating a lotus or flower shape.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Excellent; appearance suggests minimal to no use with no visible chips or cracks.
Estimated Market Value
$15 - $40 USD
Auction Estimate
$10 - $30 USD
Provenance History
likely acquired through modern retail or souvenir markets; lack of base marks in image suggests mass-market decorative origin rather than antiquity.
Art Historical Significance
Represents the enduring legacy of Qing Dynasty motifs (specifically the combination of yellow glaze and iron-red dragons) in modern consumer ceramics. It serves as a modern homage to the 'monochrome' and 'imperial' wares of the 18th century.
Notable Features
Scalloped foliate rim, five-clawed dragon iconography (traditionally reserved for the Emperor), and vibrant yellow-glaze ground reminiscent of 'Imperial Yellow'.
Condition Issues
No structural damage visible; potential minor manufacturing irregularities in transfer alignment common in mass-produced items.
Conservation Recommendations
Hand wash only with mild soap to avoid abrasive damage to the overglaze decoration; avoid high-heat dishwashers.