Vase

In the Ming (1368–1644) and Qing (1644–1911) dynasties, luxury items became more affordable to larger parts of the society, including women, merchants, and literati in non-official positions. Imperial patronage and a growing urban population encouraged consumption of luxury goods and local craftmanship. This jade vase has free ring handles suspended from a pair of feline masks. The cross-section of vase is an eight-sided lozenge with curving sides. It illustrates the superb carving skills and the creative mind of its accomplished creator, who sought clients on a competitive market.