Lot 68. A blue and white 'fish' jar, Mark and period of Jiajing (1522-1566). Height 5 in., 12.6 cm. Estimate: 20,000 - 30,000 USD. Lot sold: 31,500 USD. © Sothebys.

the base with a six-character mark in underglaze blue within a double circle.

Note: The Jiajing Emperor (r. 1521-1567) was a fervent patron of Daoism and the motifs that decorated the arts of his reign were steeped in Daoist imagery and iconography. Fish as an image of freedom from restrains have played an important part of Daoist thought and are found adorning a range of porcelain wares commissioned during this period. Similar Jiajing-marked jars of this design include an example from the collection of H.R.H. Princess Alice, Duchess of Gloucester, sold at Christie's London, 8th June 1987, lot 148; and one from the collection of Robert Chang, sold at Christie's New York, 21st March 2000, lot 314. 

Sotheby's. A Journey Through China's History. The Dr Wou Kiuan Collection Part 1, New York, 22 March 2022