The Ivory Tower, Inc. Top quality monumental Chinese export bough vase. Each side is decorated entirely in underglaze blue and white with traditional scenes incorporating Chinese flora and fauna in reserves framed by a delicate applied border. The areas between the reserves are decorated with applied vines with spherical buds that extend around and onto the canted corners.
Applied weasels frame the canted corners at top and bottom.
The applied double-twist handles on either side are surrounded by vines and applied spherical blossoms. The lid is pierced with five holes, intended to hold flowering branches such as quince, forsythia, or cherry. China, Canton region, ca. 1850. Sold as a set. Both pieces are in excellent condition, with no chips or cracks, and very little wear to the gold.