Porcelain jar with cranes and Taoist trigrams

This jar is dated to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) of China, specifically the middle of the 16th century, during the early reign of Emperor Wanli (1572-1620). The decoration on the jar features eight cranes, a number that is considered auspicious in Chinese culture. The cranes are accompanied by clouds, and the jar also features the eight trigrams of Taoism, which are represented by three horizontal lines, and the yin-yang symbol.

The crane, especially the red-crowned crane, is considered a symbol of longevity. These cranes can live for an average of 30-40 years, and some have been known to live for up to 75 years. As such, the crane is often used to represent wishes for long life. The crane was also considered a sacred symbol in the Chinese imperial court, especially during dynasties that were influenced by Taoism.

The jar has a white, fine-grained body with a clear, pale blue glaze. The painting style is also characteristic of the 16th century, with delicate brushstrokes that create fine outlines before filling in the interior with blue pigment.

The jar was found in Thailand during the reign of Maha Thammarachathirat (1569-1580), the father of King Naresuan the Great.