Code: FL
Dimensions:
Dating from the 15th century, a small blue and white jarlet from the Hoi An Hoard (shipwreck cargo) with finely painted bird motifs interspersed with a stylised leafy plant. The jarlet, now with a chalky glaze from 500 years under the sea, is further ornamented with petal decoration around the rim. The underside retains the label of provenance. Origin: Vietnam. Circa 1450-1500.
During the 15th century, off the Hoi An coast of Vietnam in the South China Sea, a trading vessel filled with ceramics vanished without a trace. It was re-discovered by fishermen in the 1990s. All pieces unique to the cargo were retained by Vietnamese museums for display. The rest was sold at auction.