Beaker vase with deer, cranes, pine, and peaches

The beaker vase, known by the name “phoenixtail vase” in Chinese for its large flaring neck, was inspired by the gu, an ancient ceremonial vessel. The beaker form developed in the Song dynasty, in conjunction with the cultural movement that saw the revival of Bronze Age rituals. The depictions around the neck and body call to mind a landscape-painting style in both brushwork and theme. The night scene with deer accompanied by cranes in peach and pine trees under the moon forms an illustration of these auspicious phrases for longevity: “crane and deer joined for the spring” and “crane and pine celebrating eternal spring.”