Dish with the Three Friends of Winter

China

Not on view

Pine needles, bamboo leaves, and plum blossoms fill the center of this deeply carved dish. Plum blossoms, which are among the first flowers of early spring, are often associated in Chinese art with evergreen pine and bamboo. Together, the trio are known as the “Three Friends of Winter,” a motif symbolizing how a lofty individual perseveres even in the harshest environment.

Dish with the Three Friends of Winter, Carved brown lacquer, China

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