the Indispensible Vases for Flower Arrangement

Late Ming literati often mentioned Longquan celadon in their writings, referencing incense burners, flower pots, stationery, and taborets. They also mentioned large-sized works such as citron dishes and the standing plum vase, emphasizing that "the greater the size the better". The Longquan wares' characteristic size distinguished them from the wares of other kilns. However, the quality of Longquan wares gradually declined during the late Ming. Their glaze became either thin and transparent or dark with crackles. Nevertheless, the Zunsheng Bajian still noted in 1592, "For arranging plum flowers in wintertime, Longquan large vases are a necessity." During the late Ming, the greenish color of celadon was still highly recognized as a staple in the daily life of the literati.

Large dish
Longquan ware
Ming Dynasty

Incense burner in the shape of rooster Longquan glaze
Late Ming Dynasty