Vessel with the Eight Auspicious Symbols

CHINA; Qing dynasty

This vessel was created during the Qing dynasty and is narrow at the base, while curving outward to result in a squat appearance. The shoulder then curves gently inward to form the wide neck. There are two handles on the shoulders. The underlying glaze of the vessel is white with a swirling motif, and the entire surface is decorated with various patterns: plantain leaves on the neck, a blue key pattern on the shoulder, followed by a floral pattern and blue plantain leaves hanging down interspersed with canopies. At the base, there is a leaf design in blue, green, and white. The eight auspicious symbols are depicted around the lower part of the body, and include a Dharma wheel, conch shell, victory banner, canopy, lotus, vase, two golden fish, and endless knot. The handles, mouth, and base are all in gold luster.
This vessel is expensively decorated in rich colors with intricate designs. It is a fine example of an overglazed-decorated work from the Qing imperial kilns.