A Qing Chinese porcelain vase with baluster-form, hand-painted with cobalt blue decoration of "shuang-xi" or "double happiness" symbol representing happiness in marriage, amid continuous scrolling vines interspersed with poppy flowers, a symbol for beauty and success. The neck and shoulder have a geometric key design, and there are applied sculpted porcelain foo dogs for handles. "Foo", "fu" or "shi" dogs are actually the lion guardians that historically were considered to offer protection. China, circa 1900 or earlier. Chinese art is rich in symbolism. Since Chinese is a language with many homophones, with the sound of a word sounding much like the sound of a concept or series of words, it has given rise to a vast language of symbols that is transmitted in Chinese art & culture. For example, the word for "vase" is "Ping" - which is a symbol for peace, since the word "vase" in Chinese sounds much like the word for "peace”.
Details:
• Date: Late 19th Century
• Dimensions: H - 28cm / 11 in; D - 12 cm / 4.7 in
• Condition: Good antique condition, there are small chips on the neck of the vase.
(The photographs form an integral part of the description.)
A well-placed antique does more than decorate a room - it gives it authorship. Against a contemporary interior, older objects introduce texture, balance and a sense of permanence that cannot be replicated by newly made pieces alone.
This is the principle behind the LÜRON selection. We look for works that carry historical character with ease, and that feel as convincing in a Paris apartment as they do in a more modern architectural setting.
