Vietnamese Imperial Bleu de Hue Porcelain Longevity Vase W/Qilin, Dragon & Fenghuang Motif - This magnificent porcelain vase is elaborately decorated in a vivid cobalt blue underglaze with a decorative panel on each side, against a highly detailed background of floral scrolls. One panel is decorated with a qilin and five clawed dragon amongst cloud and smoke wisps and stylized waves, centered around a flaming pearl. The dragon is depicted with five claws, as pieces made for nobility were depicted with five claws while pieces made for the public depicted the dragons with four claws or less. The flaming pearl is associated with spiritual energy, wisdom, prosperity, power or immortality, and the qilin is a good omen, and is also thought to occasion prosperity, serenity and fertility. The second panel is decorated with a dragon turtle presenting a fenghuang with gifts. It is believed that the Fenghuang only appears in areas or places that are blessed with utmost peace and prosperity or happiness. It is a symbol of high virtue and grace, and is said to represent power sent from the heavens to the Empress. The dragon turtle symbolizes courage, determination, fertility, longevity, power, success, and support. The vase is finished with a longevity character on two of the sides, and the base is left undecorated. Measurements: 16"H x 32" in circumference.