Blue-Glazed Vase With Golden Medallion Design

Qing Dynasty, Guangxu reign (1875 - 1908)
Shanghai Museum

The unfortunate and physically weak Guangxu spent his entire long reign under the thumb of Cixi, the Dowager Empress who effectively ruled China at this time. This Jingdezhen-ware vase is glazed in deep blue and covered with a design of closely-packed gold medallions. A golden filigreed band separates the body and neck of the vase.