Beautiful Famille Rose porcelain celadon plate of Chinese origin, dating from between 1850 and 1899, from the time of the Tongzhi Emperor (1856 to 1875, ninth emperor of the Manchu Dynasty). Finely hand-painted, the plate is decorated with magpies, butterflies, peonies and chrysanthemums in a wonderful multicoloured setting. Plate with blue maker's mark under the glaze. Plate edge in golden brown colour, believed to prevent flaws and chips in the plate. Plate in excellent overall condition and undamaged. Birds are considered powerful symbols of new opportunities that await us, even in times of adversity. The magpie is a harbinger of joy; if it is depicted upside down (like FU - good luck) it means that happiness is coming; depicted with peonies and plums, it expresses the desire for joy as spring approaches. The chrysanthemum represents longevity, the butterfly is a symbol of immortality and marital bliss and the peony symbolises wealth, power and class. See photos as they are part of the description. More photos on request. VPC298 Dimensions: 19.5cm x 3cm