White Monochrome Tsun 
Vase with Bird Decor
Ming Dynasty
(A.D. 1368-1644)
Height:          24.1cm
Depth:           18.4cm
Mouth diameter:   7.3cm
    This tsun vase mounted 
on the  back of a fowl is 
imitative of archaic bronze 
wine vessels.  The tsun 
portion is ornamented in 
cleanly incised k'uei dragon 
motives,  with  stylized 
blades decorating the 
throat and base.  The 
feathers and claws of the
bird are carved in low 
relief.  The  piece  as  a 
whole presents a delightful 
composite of stately archaic 
form and stylized animal
features combined with more
realistic elements.