Footed Offering Bowl with Gathering of Immortals

This colorful porcelain bowl dates to the mid-19th century and was originally used as a serving dish for ritual offerings, placed before a home altar and piled high with fruit, baked goods, and other foods. The cartouche-shaped dish features a short footed base decorated with a pattern of crashing waves and flared sides trimmed with a gilt edge.

Inspired by a popular Ming-dynasty drama, the exterior is painted with scene of mythical immortal beings gathered to celebrate the birthday of the Three Star Gods. Known as the Sānxīng (三星), the Three Star Gods of health, wealth, and longevity are folk deities that embody prominent star constellations and offer blessings for a good life. The three deities are shown here beneath a pine tree, being presented with the gift of a bronze ritual vessel.

The remaining figures are the Eight Immortals of Taoism, gathered in celebration of the Sānxīng and drinking tea around a stone table. Said to have attained immortality through their studies of the natural world, each of the Eight Immortals represents a different condition in life and together they impart a blessing of prosperity and longevity. Decorated in a pastel palette against a field of crisp white, this footed offering dish makes for a fantastic centerpiece or serving bowl.