Four Seasons Phoenix Tail Vase

The form of this 19th-century porcelain vase is called "phoenix tail" for the way its flared mouth and slender waist mimic the shape of the auspicious bird. The vibrant painted scene leaps off the cream field, offering a glimpse of an idealized Qing-dynasty scene. Four beautifully-dressed woman are gathered in a garden to recite poetry, surrounded by foliage symbolizing the four seasons. The pine tree represents winter, the cherry tree represents spring, the peony represents summer, and chrysanthemums represent autumn. With elegant form and detailed decoration, this vase is a stunning and charming example of Qing-dynasty porcelain.