Artwork

Small covered winepot or teapot (see also 1975.1.1710 and 1975.1.1712)

Small covered winepot or teapot (see also 1975.1.1710 and 1975.1.1712), unspecified, 1696
Small covered winepot or teapot (see also 1975.1.1710 and 1975.1.1712), unspecified, 1696

Small covered winepot or teapot (see also 1975.1.1710 and 1975.1.1712) is an unspecified painting. It dates from 1696 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The work depicts three modest white vessels, each capped with a lid and a small knob, arranged side by side.

About this work

Technique & Style

Specific details regarding the handling of the paint, the exact support material, or the current physical condition are not provided in the available records.

Created in 1696, this work is classified as a painting depicting a flower. The medium is paint on a support, executed by a Chinese artist. While the object is titled a small covered winepot or teapot, the artistic treatment focuses on the floral subject rather than the vessel's functional form.

The piece is part of the Robert Lehman Collection, now held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Specific details regarding the handling of the paint, the exact support material, or the current physical condition are not provided in the available records.

History & Provenance

The small covered winepot or teapot, classified as a painting, was created in 1696. This work is attributed to a Chinese artist and is currently held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Prior to its accession by the museum, the object was owned by Robert Lehman. The work is associated with related items cataloged as 1975.1.1710 and 1975.1.1712.

Overview

The work depicts three modest white vessels, each capped with a lid and a small knob, arranged side by side. Their surfaces are adorned with hand‑applied blue motifs of swirls and stylised flowers that cover the bodies and spouts. The composition is simple, focusing on the repetitive form and decorative pattern of the objects.

Subject & Meaning

The objects are small covered winepots or teapots, functional items likely intended for daily consumption in the late seventeenth century. Their presentation in a quiet, orderly row emphasizes their utilitarian role while the decorative blue‑on‑white designs suggest an appreciation for aesthetic embellishment even in everyday ware.

Context

During the seventeenth century, the demand for blue‑and‑white wares grew across Europe, spurred by imports from the Ming and early Qing dynasties. Domestic producers responded by adapting the motif to locally made vessels, resulting in objects such as these teapots that blend functional design with imported decorative trends.

Small covered winepot or teapot (similar to 1975.1.1714-16)
Small covered winepot or teapot (similar to 1975.1.1714-16)

Artist & collection

Frequently asked questions

Where can I see Small covered winepot or teapot (see also 1975.1.1710 and 1975.1.1712)?

Small covered winepot or teapot (see also 1975.1.1710 and 1975.1.1712) is held by Metropolitan Museum of Art.

What movement is Small covered winepot or teapot (see also 1975.1.1710 and 1975.1.1712)?

Small covered winepot or teapot (see also 1975.1.1710 and 1975.1.1712) is associated with Dutch Golden Age.