Porcelain "Sacrificial Blue Sky Ball Vase" from the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty

Porcelain "Sacrificial Blue Sky Ball Vase" from the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty

This vessel shape appeared during the Ming Xuande period, with a large and upright body, a majestic aura, and a sturdy and antique shape. It is named after its round and bulging belly resembling a spherical shape. The sacrificial blue glaze is often used during sacrificial ceremonies, hence it is called sacrificial blue glaze. It is also known as Jilan or Gemstone Blue.