An Unusual Blue and White Chinese Covered Bowl with Lobster

This porcelain bowl features a domed cover and a subtly flared body, decorated in underglaze blue on a white ground. The design consists of two lobsters, one on the lid and another on the bowl’s exterior, depicted with fine brushwork that captures their segmented bodies, long antennae, and detailed legs. Surrounding them are botanical elements, painted with varying shades of cobalt to create depth and contrast.

The vessel has a slightly flared mouth and a recessed foot, with a smooth, even glaze that enhances the clarity of the blue decoration. The lid fits securely over the bowl, with the design continuing seamlessly across both sections. The controlled brushwork and shading variations highlight the precision of the painting, particularly in the rendering of the lobsters’ curved forms and naturalistic details.

This piece reflects the craftsmanship of traditional Chinese porcelain production, likely associated with Jingdezhen kilns, where underglaze blue decoration was highly refined. The depiction of lobsters, often symbolizing strength and perseverance, aligns with auspicious themes commonly found in Chinese ceramic art.