Vase decorated with flowers of the four seasons

China

Not on view

Seasonal references abound in Chinese art, and the four different types of flowers painted here allude to the passing of time and the changes in nature. For example, the plum blossoms on one side, which often bloom when snow is on the ground, are a harbinger of spring, while chrysanthemums on another symbolize autumn.

Vase decorated with flowers of the four seasons, Porcelain painted in overglaze polychrome enamels (Jingdezhen ware), China

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