Persimmon Phoenix Tail Vase with Cartouche Paintings

This vase is a perfect example of enduring Chinese symbolism and design. The attendants in the garden are watching over young boys playing with lotus branches, butterflies, and small charms. All of these images are wishes of prosperity and longevity to the intended family. The white frames of the images open like windows in the matte persimmon base glaze, giving an impression of parting clouds to reveal the imagery within. These two features combine to imply that the vase physically contains these hopes for the future. Fired during a time when western influences were making inroads throughout China, this Phoenix Tail Vase represented fundamental aspects of Chinese culture.