Dish with mandarin ducks and lotuses

late 15th–early 16th century

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 219

Thought to mate for life and die if separated, mandarin ducks are symbols of marital fidelity and often decorate wedding gifts. They are frequently depicted together with lotus flowers to symbolize a harmonious conjugal relationship.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

明中期掐絲琺瑯蓮池鴛鴦盤
Title: Dish with mandarin ducks and lotuses
Period: Ming dynasty (1368–1644)
Date: late 15th–early 16th century
Culture: China
Medium: Cloisonné enamel
Dimensions: H. 11/16 in. (1.7 cm); Diam. 6 1/2 in. (16.5 cm)
Classification: Cloisonné
Credit Line: Purchase, The Vincent Astor Foundation Gift, 2011
Object Number: 2011.111
Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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