This blue vase with a glossy, brilliant cobalt blue glaze has a form derived from an ancient bronze vessel known as 'hu' (壶). Copies of ancient wares, including vases, were made during the reigns of Yongzheng (1723–1735) and Qianlong (1736-1795). Both emperors had a personal interest in studying antiques, and copying archaic forms and decorative styles. Hence, drawings or even wooden models of various ancient objects were sent to the imperial kiln in Jingdezhen for potters to copy. This vase emulates Ru wares of the Southern Song period (1127–1279), one of the five great wares of the Song dynasty (960–1279).Cobalt blue glazes seen on Chinese ceramics were imported from West Asia possibly inspired by Abbasid imports.
