Ming Dynasty Pottery Miniature Food Offering Plate

Ming Dynasty, c. 1550–1644, China

A superb sancai-glazed miniature model of a food offering plate, this exquisite piece depicts five peaches—symbols of longevity and immortality in Chinese culture. Designed as a funerary object, this plate was intended to accompany the deceased, embodying blessings for a long and prosperous afterlife. The piece features a lustrous sancai glaze, with vivid green tones characteristic of the Ming dynasty’s burial pottery. The technique, using lead-based glazes in hues of green, amber, and cream, was perfected during this era, imitating the appearance of luxurious materials like jade and bronze. This glaze enhances the visual appeal of the offering plate while reflecting the skilled craftsmanship of Ming artisans. Peaches, revered in Chinese symbolism, represent vitality and the divine promise of eternal life. Their depiction on this plate underscores the cultural emphasis on health, prosperity, and spiritual continuity.

During the Ming dynasty, the production of mingqi (spirit goods) flourished, continuing traditions that originated in the Han dynasty and evolved through subsequent periods. These burial objects were carefully arranged in tombs to replicate aspects of daily life, ensuring the deceased’s comfort and status in the afterlife. The number and quality of such items often reflected the rank and wealth of the individual. This miniature food offering plate stands as a remarkable testament to the artistic innovation and cultural richness of the Ming dynasty, preserving a legacy that bridges the material and spiritual realms.

Excellent condition. Intact. Age-related wear and abrasion. Glazing defects and firing flaws. Size approx. 6,8cm x 5,5cm x 5,5cm. 

Provenance: Private collection from Denmark.

For a similar example see:

Model of food offering, Asian Civilisations Museum - National Heritage Board, Singapore, Accession Number: 1993-00063                  (https://www.roots.gov.sg/en/collection-landing/listing/1060453)

References and further reading:

The Matter of Tang Tomb Figures; A New Perspective on a Group of Terracotta Animals and Riders, Lucien Van Valen & Isabelle Garachon, The Rijksmuseum Bulletin, Volume 62. pp. 218-239, 2014.

Dream of Ideal Life in Ancient China: Ceramic Miniatures of Architectures, Household Goods, People and Animals, Aichi.ken Toji Shiryokan, Seto, 2005, no. 14, p. 34.

Antecedents of Sui-Tang Burial Practices in Shaanxi, Mary Fong, Artibus Asiae 51, no:s. 3–4 (1991), pp. 147–98.

Mingqi - Items for the next world, Jan-Erik Nilsson, Gotheborg.com (https://gotheborg.com/glossary/mingqi.shtml)

Immortality of the Spirit: Chinese Funerary Art from the Han and Tang Dynasties Exhibition Catalogue, Jill J. Deupi, Ive Covaci & Leopold Swergold, Immortality of the Spirit - Ephemera. 1, Fairfield University, 2012. (https://digitalcommons.fairfield.edu/immortality_ephemera/1)

The Vibrant Role of Mingqi in Early Chinese Burials, Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History, Heather Colburn Clydesdale, Independent Scholar, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, April 2009. (www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/mgqi/hd_mgqi.htm)