Chinese Porcelain Bowl Incised Dragon Boat Moti

A fascinating bowl made of white porcelain, this handmade piece was given a cream colored, speckled glaze, then lightly sponged with yellow and topped with a clear glaze. The scalloped edges are painted black, as are most of the designs.

The hand painted, incised scene depicts a dragon boat, popular in China for centuries, filled with fishermen holding spears or paddling the boat. With seabirds above and eleven fish of varying sizes below, along with a Chinese alligator, there is a wonderful sense of movement and energy.

The underside of the bowl has incised lotus petal designs outlined in black. It too has a clear overglaze except for the dry foot. There is a stamped chop mark in the center, which is probably that of the potter, although we have been unable to identify it. (We do believe it is 20th century). There is also a signature in English letters, etched and underlined.

The bowl measures approximately 10 inches in diameter, 1 1/2 inches high and weighs 1 3/4 pounds. It's in great condition, with very faint crazing that is a bit more pronounced on the bottom. Other than a small glaze skip on the underside that reveals the white clay, there is no other damage---no chips, cracks or stains. It displays handsomely and works well with other Asian ceramics and décor.

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