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Covered jar with lady musicians, one of a pair
Covered jar with lady musicians, one of a pair

Covered jar with lady musicians, one of a pair

Place of OriginJiangxi province, China
DynastyQing dynasty (1644-1911), Reign of the Kangxi emperor (1662-1722)
MaterialsPorcelain with underglaze blue and overglaze polychrome decoration
DimensionsH. 19 3/8 in x Diam. 13 1/8 in, H. 49.2 cm x Diam. 33.3 cm
Credit LineThe Avery Brundage Collection
Object numberB60P1232
DepartmentChinese Art
ClassificationsCeramics
On View
Not on view
More Information

The birthday scene shows ladies playing music and carrying birthday gifts such as the fungus of immortality and a plate of longevity peaches. The phoenix stands under its favorite wutong tree, which provides further auspicious blessings.

The lid of this vase shows five boys, one holds a military helmet. The helmet (kui) is a pun on "eminent" or great (kui), as in the one who places first in the palace examination. The five boys refer to the five eminent sons of the tenth century scholar Dou Yujun, each of whom achieved exceptional success in the civil service examinations.

HIDDEN MEANING: Celebrating longevity (qingshou); and May your sons distinguish themselves (receive first place) in the civil service examinations (wuzi duokui).