This monk’s cap ewer derives its name from the caps worn by Tibetan monks. The unique shape of this vessel is attributed to Tibetan metalwork. This ewer has a white body and encircling the neck are four incised roundels inscribed with the characters ‘Yongle Nianzhi’ (永乐年制, ‘Made during Yongle’s reign’) in seal script. The preference for white comes from connotations of mourning and filial piety, which Yongle was keen to emphasise during his reign to gain legitimacy as he had usurped the throne from his nephew. This ewer might have been one of the gifts presented to the Tibetan hierarch, Halima, who presided over Buddhist rituals held in honour of Hongwu, Yongle’s father. It might also be a ceremonial ware for Tibetan rituals at court.
