This ewer is of slender hexagonal pear-shape, based on an Islamic metalwork original. It has a scroll-shaped handle and spout which are joined to the body. The tall hexagonal hollow base has a “fu” mark.  The body is painted with a panel of a galloping horse among waves on each side, the front and back with panels of flowers, the neck, handle and spout are painted with stiff leaves, and the base with symbols above waves breaking on rocks.

When Chinese porcelain reached Europe in the 16^th and 17^th centuries it was often mounted in silver or metal-gilt.

Literature: Anthony du Boulay, The Duberly Collection of Chinese Art at Winchester College (Winchester, 2019), p. 37

Provenance: Bequeathed as part of the Duberly Collection, 1978; purchased by Major Montagu and Lady Eileen Duberly from John Sparks, 14 April 1953 (50 guineas); formerly in the collection of Mrs. Alfred Clark, sold Sotheby’s, London, 24 March 1953, lot 16

Location: Treasury, Gallery 2