A BLACK OVERLAY WHITE GLASS BOTTLE

1800-1880

Details

A BLACK OVERLAY WHITE GLASS BOTTLE
1800-1880
Of flattened pear shape, unusually carved through a matte (dry) black overlay with vessels to each side containing the flowers of the four seasons, twin-fish to one side and a crab and bat to the other, all divided by stylized fixed-ring handles to the shorter sides, stopper
26in. (5.9cm.) high

Provenance

Sotheby's, New York, 21 January 1982, lot 31

Lot Essay

Twin fish is a symbol of plenty as well as a Buddhist symbol and the crab is a symbol of good luck as it keeps evil spirits away. The flowers of the four seasons, chrysanthemums, orchids, prunus and peony placed in vases together is an auspicious symbol.

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