21. Carved Coconut Bowl
Ming dynasty, 16th - 17th century
Diameter: 12.1cm
The sides of this bowl are finely carved with a charming garden scene featuring ten children playing - boys with shaved heads, wearing baggy trousers and tops. The motif of children at play represents the wish for numerous sons – considered a blessing for the traditional Confucian family and important for the continuation of the familial line. The design is found on porcelain from the Ming dynasty (1368 - 1644) onwards, as well across the decorative arts in China.
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