Vase decorated with auspicious animals
The five pairs of birds on this vase stand for the five basic relationships (wulun) in traditional Chinese society. Phoenixes on perforated rocks near magnolia trees denote a ruler’s connection to their officials. The cranes at left represent father and son. Mandarin ducks swimming by lotuses in the pond evoke a husband and wife. Two wagtail birds resting atop the magnolia trees gesture to the bond between siblings, and the orioles in flight symbolize friendship.
Artwork Details
- 清康熙 景德鎮窯青花五倫圖煨瓷瓶
- Title: Vase decorated with auspicious animals
- Period: Qing dynasty (1644–1911), Kangxi period (1662–1722)
- Date: early 18th century
- Culture: China
- Medium: Soft paste porcelain painted in underglaze cobalt blue (Jingdezhen ware)
- Dimensions: H. 13 in. (33 cm)
- Classification: Ceramics
- Credit Line: Bequest of Benjamin Altman, 1913
- Object Number: 14.40.330
- Curatorial Department: Asian Art
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Chinese
1368–1644
China
18th century
China
second half 15th century
Chinese
late 16th–early 17th century
China
late 17th–early 18th century
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