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Li Bai, Yang Guifei, and Gao Lishi
Li Bai, Yang Guifei, and Gao Lishi

Li Bai, Yang Guifei, and Gao Lishi

Date17th century
PeriodMing dynasty (1368–1644)
MediumDehua ware; porcelain with transparent glaze
DimensionsHEIGHT: 4 3/8 in. (11.1 cm)
ClassificationsCeramics
Credit LineGift of Ira and Nancy Koger, 2001
Object numberSN11122.90
This scene depicts a popular story in which the Tang-dynasty poet Li Bai boldly requested that the high-level court eunuch Gao Lishi remove his muddy boots. Theatrical conventions such as Gao’s kneeling posture, the table, and the presence of imperial consort Yang Guifei suggest that the object may represent a staged account of the episode. Given its small size and rougher details, it could have been made as an inexpensive memento of a theatrical production.
On View
On view
Location
  • Center for Asian Art, 3rd floor, Lobby, Case D