Vietnamese 18th C. Imperial Bleu de Hue Porcelain Bowl Commissioned for Inner Court (W/Noi phu thi Huu Mark) - This stunning piece is elaborately glazed in vivid cobalt blue on the exterior with a five-clawed dragon and a fenghuang (phoenix) amid clouds, attending to the Longevity wish symbol. The base bears the four imperial character mark reading "Noi phu thi Huu" (as commissioned for the right royal palace) suggesting that the piece was commissioned for the Queen. This very high quality porcelain was ordered from China for the court use. Although Chinese artisans executed the painting, Vietnamese rulers dictated the designs. Each ruler ordered ceramics of his own liking for use in his court, as well as presentation pieces to give to members of royal families and mandarin officials. This is an absolutely stunning investment piece that truly belongs in a museum. This piece comes from the estate of a Vietnamese Royal Family (the family now lives in the United States, and wishes to remain private as they still have relatives living in Vietnam). Measurements: 7.5"H x 16" in diameter.