Bowl with Lotus Design

Place of OriginChina

DateNorthern Song Dynasty (960-1129)

DimensionsHeight: 2 1/4 in. (5.7 cm)
Rim (Diameter): 8 1/8 in. (20.6 cm)
Base (Diameter): 1 3/4 in. (4.4 cm)

MediumPorcelain, incised decoration under ivory glaze (Ding ware); copper rim

ClassificationCeramics

Credit LinePurchased with funds from the Libbey Endowment, Gift of Edward Drummond Libbey

Object number

1927.47

Not on View

DescriptionIncised leaf and scroll pattern.

Label TextElegant and refined, Ding ware porcelain was prized at the Northern Song court in China for its thinness and creamy ivory glazes. Lotus blossoms and scrolling stems decorate the interior of this Ding ware bowl. The design was incised into the thin porcelain before it was glazed and fired upside down, standing on its rim, to prevent distortion of the vessel’s form. A copper band covers the unglazed rim.