Cup with Buddha’s-Hand Citron
Qing dynasty (1644–1911), Kangxi reign mark and period (1662–1722)
Medium
Porcelain painted in overglaze enamels
Dimensions
5.1 × 9.8 cm (2 × 3 7/8 in.); Diam.: 9.8 cm (3 7/8 in.)
Classification
drinking vessel
Department
Arts of Asia
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
42367
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
The delicately painted fruit in soft pastel hues enhances the clear-glazed interior of this crimson-sheathed cup. The subtle color palette reflects the technical advancements in porcelain enameling towards the end of Kangxi’s reign. Under the emperor’s patronage, potters successfully introduced a white enamel with a base of lead arsenic. This innovation serves to opacify the colors and allows for finer gradations. This cup features the motif of the Buddha’s Hand (foshou), a nonedible yet fragra...
About the Artist
Unknown
The artist designated as "Unknown" in our virtual museum's collection exemplifies a poignant chapter in art history: creators whose identities have faded into obscurity despite the enduring power of their work. With only one known artwork attributed to them in our holdings, this figure represents countless anonymous hands that shaped visual culture across centuries. Museums worldwide, including th...