Famille Rose Fish Bowl with One Hundred Cranes

During the 18th century, Europeans provided an eager market for Chinese export porcelain, especially the colorful and fanciful ware known as “famille rose.” Named for a palette of opaque overglaze enamels that favored roses and pinks, famille rose porcelain ware was crafted with the same technical virtuosity as imperial porcelain but designed for Western tastes. This large porcelain fish bowl is a contemporary example of this intricate art form, defined by its dark red enameled field and contrasting palette of pastel pinks, blues, purples and greens.

The interior of the fish bowl is decorated with copper-red underglaze linework of large ornamental koi fish, surrounded by enameled green foliage suggestive of seaweed and aquatic plants. The exterior is boldly decorated with an allover pattern of white cranes soaring through swirling, multicolor clouds. A common symbol of longevity, this motif of "one hundred cranes" bestows the blessing of a long life filled with wealth and abundance.

The sides of the bowl are further decorated with large cartouches framed by sinuous dragons and phoenixes, two powerful mythical creatures that together symbolize a balanced and happy marriage. On one side is a scene of two scholar-officials gathered for tea, seated within a pavilion topped by ceramic roof tiles. Surrounded by guards, attendants and guests, the pair looks on as a group of entertainers perform a display of martial arts and swordsmanship. On the opposite side is a regal battle scene of armored warriors fighting on horseback in a mountain valley.

Additional Dimensions:
Diameter of Opening: 17.9"