A vase is one of the Eight Auspicious Symbols of Buddhism. A picture of a bottle or vase symbolizes “peace” or “safety” because both the character for vase (ping 瓶) and that for peace (pingan 平安) are pronounced ping. A vase with flowers from all four seasons is a wish for peace for all the year and since it is said to contain the elixir of life, it symbolizes the fulfillment of all of one’s wishes. A gift of a vase is not only a wish for peace but, when it holds or depicts symbolic flowers or other images, it may create other rebuses. The bodhisattva Guanyin is often depicted holding a vase, pouring out the contents of a vase or seated to the side or in front of a vase (aka vial) that is a symbol of her compassion. Her vase holds “Amrita” having a wide range of curative powers described as the tears of humanity, nurturing holy water and the dew of compassion that are able to purify defilements of the body, speech and mind and relieve suffering and sickness. The vase of pure water is one of tahe Eight Symbols of Good Fortune.
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Multicolored ceramic opium pillow, hand-painted green and red florals, fruits and vases in relief, blue cobalt border. Top and bottom seals to approve for export as antique.
This earthenware brick tile bordered with a deep scalloped frame depicts a vase with a bouquet of propitious flowers: a chrysanthemum and a peony wrapped with an elegant ribbon. Tiles like this were made to decorate the large numbers of buildings created during the prosperous Song dynasty and to adorn tombs. This elegant brick is in good condition for its age with expected chips and cracks, some restoration of background and a re-glued frame break on each side. It has earth adherents from its burial in a tomb.
This stoneware glazed garden stool was used by a wealthy family reflected in its complex designs, auspicious symbols and its use of so much cobalt blue, a highly prized and expensive mineral paint color normally used sparingly. The pierced side to side circles running through the inside from side to side and the pierced design…
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