Falangcai porcelain pear-shaped vase (yuhuchun ping)

Qing dynasty, Yongzheng reign mark and of the period, 1723-1735.

In an exhibition of masterpieces, perhaps this vase stands out among the others.  Again, it was made during the Yongzheng reign, however it has probably a closer link to the Emperor than the 'peach' bowl (catalogue number 11).  The dragon vase was decorated in the enamelling workshop in Beijing, rather than in the south in Jingdezhen.  It was decorated in a colour, puce, one of the 'foreign colours' or falangcai that had only recently been perfected in China after instruction by the Jesuits at the Imperial court.  From the records it seems very likely that this  was presented personally to the Emperor for his approval and that he commended it.