Qing dynasty, Yongzheng reign mark and of the period, 1723-1735.
In an exhibition of masterpieces, perhaps this vase stood out amongst the others. It was made during the Yongzheng reign. 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.