Dating to second half of 15th century AD (1450-1480)

A fine blue and white porcelain glazed dish, decorated with a beautiful central peony design and surrounded by a border of blue and white foliage. The exterior depicts decorative petal lappets enclosed with scrolls.

The piece is a fine, early example of Vietnamese export ware with a fascinating history.

Found by fishermen in the 1990’s and eventually excavated in 1996-2000, the Hoi An shipwreck is one of the greatest archaeological finds of the late 20th century. It sank 22 miles off the coast of central Vietnam in the South China Sea, in typhoon area known as “Dragon Sea”. The ship was carrying a large cargo of Vietnamese ceramics from the mid- to late-15th century. The provenance of the pieces was known to be the kilns of the Red River Delta (such as Chu Dau) because excavations in the region had been on going since their discovery in 1983. The only pieces remaining at the kiln sites were wasters (pieces that had fused, collapsed or exploded in the firing process). Intact examples of the wares produced were rare, since all were exported. When the wreck was found there was excitement among collectors and archaeologists, for it promised the first cargo consisting solely of Vietnamese wares.

In super condition with good strong colour and nice detail.
Complete with original HOI AN HOARD inventory barcode numbers (stickers). This piece has been officially recorded by the Vietnamese authorities (VISAL) whose stickers are affixed. Lot number 182223 (part lot).

Provenance: This piece was sold at auction in 2000 at Butterfields in San Francisco whose stickers are affixed.

Size: 234mm outer diam