Qianlong Yellow-Ground Blue-and-White Floral Watering Can

<p>This is a yellow-ground blue-and-white floral water dropper from the Yongzheng imperial kiln, often mistakenly called a huagu. It served as a ceremonial vessel for the royal court. Its form derives from West Asian metalware, featuring an elongated spout and a warm, emerald-green leaf-shaped handle. The body has a rounded belly that tapers to a recessed foot, with balanced, elegant lines. Covered in a delicate yellow glaze of uniform purity and warmth—a color reserved exclusively for the emperor—the exterior is decorated with vibrant underglaze blue interlocking Paoxiang flowers. Layered relief chrysanthemum petal motifs create a three-dimensional effect on the lower section, while the neck and shoulder are adorned with interlocking lotus borders. The striking contrast between blue and yellow enhances its visual impact. The base bears the six-character reign mark "Da Qing Yongzheng Nian Zhi" in neat script. Crafted under the supervision of Tang Ying, this masterpiece blends reverence for tradition with innovation. Its precise, intricate decoration and flawless craftsmanship represent the pinnacle of Qing dynasty imperial porcelain. Rarely surviving today, it stands as a definitive example of yellow-ground blue-and-white ware from the Yongzheng period, combining ritual and display functions with exceptional collectibility.</p>