Red dragon dish

Decorated in overglaze iron-red enamel, this five-clawed dragon with its legs extended on both sides is a style most likely adopted from the Xuande period (1426–1435). Imperial porcelains made during 16th-17th centuries were usually decorated with dragons in this style. The dragon’s head is turned to one side to reveal its protruding eyes. A six-character reign mark written in iron red enamel can be found on its base.