Spring Blossoms Phoenix Tail Vase

Translated as “After the New Year, spring will begin in Suzhou (China’s garden city),” the beautifully scripted phrase painted at the top of this elegant vase is accompanied by the scene of a wealthy young mother who has brought her children out to play in the fresh spring air. Lavishly detailed and masterfully painted, this classic phoenix tail vase demonstrates the high level of craft achieved by Qing-dynasty ceramic artists who used the rich and varied color of newly developed enamel glazes to their fullest advantage. Lace-like cutout handles add to its delicacy.