Oviform Jar

1368-1644

The animated painting on this porcelain jar features a golden pheasant framed by the branches of white magnolia flowers and lush peonies. The golden pheasant is the symbol for the second-highest rank among civil officials. White magnolias are symbols of purity; they also stand for “jade hall” (yutang), meaning a rich or noble house. A peony is a symbol of wealth, high social status, and official position. The white magnolia combined with a peony, as on this vessel, means, “May your noble house be blessed with wealth and honor” (yutang fugui). The motif of the pomegranate splitting open, as on the neck of this vase, exposing the seeds inside, conveys a wish for fertility and numerous progeny (liukai baizi).