The use of dragon motifs continued into the Ming dynasty (1368-1644), as is suggested by this blue and white brush washer with a five-clawed dragon among clouds in the centre of the dish. The six character reign mark on the base is that of the Xuande period. The dragon is depicted with its legs extended, a style that probably began at this time. This posture can be seen on the dragons in the panels on the exterior of the brush washer.
