Vase with magpies and plum tree, one of a pair
Place of OriginChina
Date1700-1800
DynastyQing dynasty (1644-1911)
MaterialsGlass
DimensionsH. 6 1/2 in x W. 4 1/8 in, H. 16.5 cm x Diam. 10.5 cm
Credit LineGift of Ashkenazie and Company
Object number1988.37.1
DepartmentChinese Art
ClassificationsDecorative Arts
On View
On viewLocationGallery 17
More Information喜臨天下
Motifs for Happiness
The character for joy or happiness (xi 喜) is associated with pleasant events, such as weddings and the arrival of newborn sons. Throughout Chinese history, boys were regarded as vital to the preservation of the patriliny, because they would carry on the family name and continue to worship ancestors. In imperial society, men of the educated class sacrificed their childhood for the study of the classics, and their success in the civil service exams brought the greatest imaginable joy to the family.
Motifs for Happiness
The character for joy or happiness (xi 喜) is associated with pleasant events, such as weddings and the arrival of newborn sons. Throughout Chinese history, boys were regarded as vital to the preservation of the patriliny, because they would carry on the family name and continue to worship ancestors. In imperial society, men of the educated class sacrificed their childhood for the study of the classics, and their success in the civil service exams brought the greatest imaginable joy to the family.
Subject
- magpie
- plum tree
approx. 1800-1900
approx. 1900-1940
1850-1900
1910-1945
approx. 1700-1800
approx. 1800-1900
approx. 1800-1900
approx. 1800-1900
1800-1900
Pair/Pair