Plate

In the late Ming, the decorative scheme on this plate remained a style for export underglaze-blue porcelains on which the main motifs were painted in with floral panels against dark colored or densely patterned grounds. On the interior, the central medallion depicting a phoenix amid peony flowers is bordered with eight flower petals, alternately enclosing peony, rose, lotus, and chrysanthemum branches. On the rim, four petals with peach baskets are flanked by eggplants. The exterior is painted with seven of the Eight Buddhist Treasures. This assemblage of elements cheerfully offers wishes for wealth, nobility, and longevity.