China, Republic, Plastic Vase Decorated With An Offering To The God Shoulao

Visible in Paris. Free hand delivery in thecapital and its suburbs. Delivery for France: 20€, contact mefor Europe and worldwide.

Small blue-white plastic purse-shaped vase, offering scene to the god of longevity Shoulao in cobalt blue
Apocryphal Kangxi mark in cobalt blue underglaze
China, Republic Period (1912-1949)

Dimensions: 18 cm (H)

Condition report: perfect condition

Although quite modern, this ceramic is very interesting for its shape, glaze, and decoration. The shape is that of a purse. In Chinese culture, it evokes prosperity and wealth.
The slightly cream-colored glaze shows irregularities testifying to traditional hand-crafting (not molding).
The underglaze cobalt blue decoration depicts an offering to the Taoist god of longevity: Shoulao. He is identifiable by his advanced age and his Ruyi scepter. He rides a crane among the clouds, an animal that is itself a symbol of longevity and good fortune. All his other attributes, brought by the other characters, are deer, peaches and a gourd (all also associated with longevity). A beautiful and unusual object, full of symbolism!