'Pingguo Zun' Water Pot - Porcelain - Butterflies (hudie, 蝴蝶) - China - Early 20th century

Blue and White 'Pingguo Zun' Water Pot | Late Qing dynasty to Republic Period, 19th–early 20th century

A charming Chinese porcelain water pot (shui cheng) in the form of an apple, known as pingguo zun (苹果尊). The rounded body features a slightly recessed shoulder and a short, narrow neck.

The exterior is decorated in underglaze cobalt blue with detailed butterflies and flying insects, set against a finely painted background of clouds. The lively naturalistic decoration combines delicacy with a pleasing sense of movement.

In Chinese symbolism, butterflies (hudie, 蝴蝶) represent happiness, joy and marital harmony. The word die (蝶) is also associated through a homophone with longevity, particularly the age of seventy to eighty, making butterflies a traditional auspicious motif expressing wishes for a long and prosperous life. This decoration is especially appropriate for a scholar's desk object.

Dimensions:
H 5.5 × W 6 cm

Condition:
Good overall condition, with no damage reported.

Please examine the photographs carefully. The written condition report is indicative only; the photographs provide the definitive and binding description of the item's condition.

Shipping:
The water pot will be securely packed and shipped with insurance.