MING CHENGHUA DOUCAI TIANMA TU TIAN ZI JAR

Updated August 16, 2026

This auction ended on August 21, 2026. See upcoming auctions from Yakon Auctions.
Lot number8
Estimate15,000.00 - 20,000.00 USD
AuctionAug Premier Antique & Collectibles
DateAugust 21, 2026 at 6:09 AM EDT
Auction houseYakon Auctions
LocationGermantown, Maryland

<br>L:11.5cm H:11.2cm This is a classic imperial doucai jar of Chenghua reign Ming Dynasty, with short straight mouth, broad plump shoulder, rounded belly and shallow ring foot, fitted with original flat lid. It is crafted from fine pure white clay covered with thick glossy glaze, marked with a single blue character "Tian (Heaven)" on the base, hence the name Tian Mark Jar. The whole vessel is decorated with layered doucai patterns: blue-and-white sea waves on the lid, multi-colored heavenly galloping horses striding over green waves surrounded by auspicious clouds covering the main body, with yellow banana leaf bands decorating the shoulder and base. It adopts the doucai craft: underglaze blue outlines filled with overglaze polychrome enamels, presenting soft bright colors and delicate neat lines. Heavenly horse symbolizes free reign and peaceful realm. Tian mark jars were exclusive imperial small vessels for storing incense or tea in literati studies. Surviving examples are extremely scarce, ranking among the finest masterpieces of Ming doucai porcelain<br>ALL PROPERTY IS SOLD AS IS, WHERE IS, WITH NO RETURNS OR CANCELLATIONS.<br><br> Additional photographs and condition reports may be provided upon request as a courtesy only. Any condition report, catalogue description, image, certificate, report, document, authentication statement, authentication opinion, specialist opinion, or communication regarding origin, date, age, attribution, authenticity, authorship, signature, condition, provenance, or value is an opinion only and not a representation, warranty, or assumption of liability by Yakon Auctions.<br><br> The absence of reference to defects, restoration, wear, damage, handling marks, conservation, alteration, or repair does not mean the lot is free from such matters. Photographs are for reference only and may not accurately reflect color, tone, dimensions, condition, signature details, or the true state of the lot. Buyers should review all images carefully, as they form part of the description.<br><br> Provenance is provided by the consignor, prior owner, or most recent owner and may not be supported by records. All reports, COAs, appraisals, authentication letters, provenance statements, invoices, labels, or related documents, including any opinions, analyses, or conclusions therein, are provided as received from the consignor, prior owner, or third party, and have not been independently verified by Yakon Auctions. Such materials are for reference only and are not guarantees of authenticity, authorship, signature, origin, age, period, provenance, condition, or value.<br><br> All artworks, antiques, collectibles, autographed items, signed memorabilia, music memorabilia, records, photographs, posters, entertainment collectibles, and related items are offered based on information and documentation provided with the lot. Unless expressly stated, Yakon Auctions has not independently authenticated any signature, inscription, attr

More lots in this auction

See all lots in Aug Premier Antique & Collectibles →