STUNNING, Chinese Qianlong Hundred Deer motif porcelain Zun vase. Sturdily potted in a bulbous body, gracefully waisted and tapering toward neck leading to a wide opening, raised on a footed base. The collar applied with two ruby-red dragons created pair of characterizing ears. The exterior delicately decorated in polychrome hand painting with continuous scene of "hundred deer's "in forest, with Lishui water, various sturdy tree in mountainous landscape. Hundred Deer (bai lu) motif, is referring to a long career in civil service, since the Chinese word lu for "deer" is a homophone for "emolument" or "civil service salary". The 'hundred bai deer motif' therefore represent the ultimate success in Imperial China - scholarly success and a long career in government service. The idea conveyed in the 'Hundred Deer' design is a wish for great wealth and success. The deer symbolizes immortality and is the companion of ShuoLao, the God of Longevity. The clay is very fine, with a brilliant finish that was applied by a meticulous glaze craftsman, the composition is sophisticated and the colors are a feast for the eye.
The under base bear a reign mark, a six underglazed blue seal script characters reign mark, Made in The Years of Qianlong Reign Period of Great Qing Dynasty.Measurements: Height: 18 1/4" Diameter: 14 1/2"