Pouring vessel (Kendi) 1705 - 1717

This pouring vessel, or Kendi, was crafted from red stoneware at the Meissen Manufactory. The dragon motifs circling its neck are powerful symbols in East Asian cultures, emblems of strength, wisdom, and imperial power. Consider how the dragon, a symbol deeply rooted in Chinese mythology, appears in various forms across cultures. From the scaled serpent of ancient Mesopotamia to the fire-breathing beasts of medieval Europe, this imagery has traversed continents and centuries. Dragons evolve, yet they consistently evoke primal emotions tied to fear, respect, and wonder. Here, the dragon isn't merely decorative. It embodies a profound link to the past, stirring deep cultural memories, a non-linear path through time.