KANGXI PERIOD (1662-1722)

The scene depicted on this dish likely represents Yan Qing Da Lei (Yan Qing Challenges the Wrestling Ring), a well-known episode from the Ming-dynasty classic Chinese novel Water Margin. The story begins with an imperial wrestling champion, Lu Zhisheng, who is notorious for his arrogance and cruelty. He establishes a wrestling ring and boasts that no one can defeat him. On the day of the match, Lu Zhisheng is confident that he will easily defeat Yan Qing due to the latter's smaller stature. However, Yan Qing employs his agility, speed, and technique to defeat Lu Zhisheng, humiliating him in front of the crowd. This story is a quintessential example of an underdog triumphing over a seemingly invincible opponent through skill, intelligence, and determination. It is one of the many tales within Water Margin that highlights themes of justice, bravery, and the fight against corruption.