Covered boxes in the shape of nesting quails (one of a pair)
Place of OriginChina
DynastyQing dynasty (1644-1911), Reign of the Qianlong emperor (1736-1795)
MaterialsIvory with painted bases
DimensionsH. 2 1/2 in x W. 3 1/4 in x D. 1 3/4 in, H. 6.4 cm x W. 8.3 cm x D. 4.4 cm
Credit LineThe Avery Brundage Collection
Object numberB60M497.b
DepartmentChinese Art
ClassificationsDecorative Arts
On View
Not on viewSometimes Chinese objects should be shown with their original stands in order to make the meaning of their decorations complete. The two quails here are resting on bases carved into a bundle of grain (sui), a visual pun for year. Quails and peace are both pronounced an. Together they form the motif suisui pingan ("peace year after year").
Subject
- quail
- grain
1736-1795
1800-1900
