清嘉慶/道光 粉彩太平有象一對12 3/8 in. (31.5 cm.) high, hongmu stands
The imagery of an elephant carrying a vase represents the rebus taiping youxiang, which can be translated as 'may there be a peaceful reign'. This auspicious theme can be seen not only in porcelain, but also in various media such as cloisonné enamel, metalwork, jade, and painting. A similar pair of elephants dated to the Qianlong period was sold at Christie's London, 9 May 2017, lot 95.