• Joseon Dynasty, 16th century
• Private Collection
• Treasure

Few white porcelain vessels featuring dragon designs survive from early Joseon. This example, in the form of a yuhuchun (pear-shaped) vase, is richly adorned with dynamic depictions of a dragon soaring amid swirling clouds across its entire body. The style of the dragon closely resembles that on the Jar decorated with cloud and dragon design “宣德年製” (Made in the Xuande Reign), now in the collection of the Idemitsu Museum of Arts in Japan. The porcelain’s creamy tone and the vibrant coloration of the cobalt pigment are particularly outstanding. The presence of a dragon motif suggests that this vessel was reserved for royal use, most likely serving as a wine bottle during court banquets.