Chinese Baluster Vase with Dragon Motif

A fisherman in blue poles his way across a white bottle with curly handles.

This porcelain baluster vase with dragon motif is from China, and dates to the 20th century. A baluster form swells at the body and narrows toward the neck, a profile borrowed from architectural columns and used for vases in many ceramic traditions. A rounded flask with a flared neck, lobed body and two coiled blue handles. Blue painted scenes show a standing figure on a boat among waves and cloud scrolls, with a small floral motif near the foot. It is 5.25 inches wide, 4.5 deep and 7.5 high.

A quiet river outing, taken at an unhurried pace.