21.2 cm. (8³⁄₈ in.) wide

With Spink & Son, London, March 1937 (as recorded in the RHRP ledger).
The Reginald and Lena Palmer Collection, no. 28 (as recorded in the RHRP ledger and according to label).

The Oriental Ceramic Society, Catalogue of an Exhibition of The Arts of the Qing Dynasty, Charles F. Ince & Sons, Ltd., London, 1964, cat. no. 352, p. 58.

London, The Arts Council of Great Britain and The Oriental Ceramic Society, Loan Exhibition of The Arts of The Ch'ing Dynasty, 26 May-2 July 1964.

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Lot Essay

In traditional Chinese decorative art, the depiction of the Narcissus often conveys layered symbolic meanings. It primarily embodies auspiciousness and immortality. When paired with motifs such as longevity rocks, as seen on the present tray, the design expresses wishes for long life and blessings. The intended symbolism also varies according to the object’s function and owner: in scholars’ objects like this example, it reflects purity, integrity, and refined character. This symbolism is further enhanced by the poetic inscription bing zi yi zhong fang , which may be translated as “With an icy grace unlike all other blossoms.”