CHINESE BLUE AND WHITE PORCELAIN MANDARIN-DUCKS WATER DROPPER AND COVER,Ming Dynasty, circa 1500. For a similar water dropper see Christiaan J. A. Jörg. "Chinese Ceramics in the collection of the Rijks Museum, Amsterdam, The Ming and Qing Dynasties," ill. p. 35, pl. 9: "Pair of mandarin ducks, as shown here, are a popular symbol of conjugal fidelity and marital bliss. In Buddhist ritual the duck suppresses evil...It is very rare to find one which still retains its original cover." - 4 3/4 in. long. Estimate $8,000-10,000
PROVENANCE: Collection of a Virginia lady
The water dropper is in perfect condition, the cover is original.
