A 19th Century Crackleware Porcelain Dragon Vase

A late 19th century porcelain vase, having an applied black glazed dragon upon a white crackle ground.

The Dragon is perhaps the most well recognised of all Chinese symbols. In modern times, the mythological creature stands for power, potency, strength and good luck and is deeply imbedded in their tradition. Historically speaking the “angel of the Orient” symbolised the emperor and stands for the ruler of water and weather. One of the twelve zodiac signs, the dragon is the most popular under which to bear children.

Qing Dynasty – Guangxu Period (1875-1908)