Vase

This vase is a very early example of famille rose enamel on porcelain. It represents the transition between the Kangxi (1662–1722) and Yongzheng (1723–35) reigns, with the shape, shoulder, and narrative scenes on the neck being typical of Kangxi-period forms while the large peonies are more characteristic of Yongzheng-period ceramics. The decoration highlights two mythical birds, either a pair of phoenixes (feng) or a phoenix and her mate (huan) in a rocky landscape strewn with peonies and peach blossoms. This dramatic scene is a rebus expressing a wish for a rich and honorable household. The juxtaposition of the phoenix and peony symbolize a happy life, and the phoenix and mate connote a blissful marriage.