This magnificent blue and white dish on yellow ground from the Xuande reign exemplifies the technical brilliance and aesthetic refinement of the Ming imperial kilns. The glaze is thick and
lustrous, revealing a soft, jade-like sheen, while the blue cobalt appears vivid and layered, with characteristic dark specks and silvery “tin spots” indicative of the finest Xuande cobalt pigment.
In the centre, a flying dragon pursuing a flaming pearl is depicted in dynamic motion—the body sinuously coiled, head uplifted, eyes round and fierce, whiskers flaring, and claws clenched with strength. The vigorous brushwork and rhythmic composition convey both power and majesty. Around the exterior wall runs a continuous band of scrolling lingzhi motifs, symbolising auspicious longevity and blessings.
The yellow ground, rich and even in tone, sets off the cobalt blue decoration in striking contrast, while the porcelain body is fine, dense, and smoothly finished. On the outer rim of the base appears a six-character underglaze-blue mark Da Ming Xuande Nian Zhi (Made in the Xuande reign of the Great Ming), written in precise, balanced script typical of official ware.
Radiant in colour, elegant in design, and superb in workmanship, this Xuande Yellow-Ground Blue and White Dragon Dish stands as a masterpiece of Ming imperial porcelain craftsmanship.
