1-233-438 - The Museum of East Asian Art/Heritage Images

Yue celadon jar with mandarin ducks in lotus medallions, late Tang dynasty, China, 9th-10th century. A globular Yue jar on a relatively high outsplayed foot decorated under a rather glassy blue green celadon glaze with four incised circular medallions formed by four lotus leaves. Each medallion has a mandarin duck standing up with wings outstretched. The borders around the mouth are incised with scrolls as is the decoration separating the medallions. Mandarin ducks mate for life and are used in Chinese art as a symbol of maritial fidelity.