Late Qing Dynasty, Circa: 19th century
h.12n.(30cm.) X w.6.5 in.(16.5cm.) X d.12 in.(30cm.)
Condition: Very Good, water leakage
The
elephant is an auspicious animal in Buddhism, and symbol of universal peace that
flanked the emperor's throne. Elephant vases such as this one were used on alters
to hold flowers. It is probable that the design is derived from the sacred elephant
that carries the stupa (true body of the Buddha). This
elephant vase decorated with enamels in polychrome is typical of porcelain of
Qing. A beautiful seven colors technique, sprinkled gold powder and hand painted
with four sinuous dragons chasing sacred pearls twine among rainbow colored cloud
motifs. The decoration is a combination of red and blue in conjunction to other
colors. It is likely that two or more firings were required to produce this wonderful
vase.