CHINE, DYNASTIE QING, XVIIIE-XIXE SIÈCLE

The present vase is fashioned in the form of a double gourd and constructed around an openwork silver framework finely chased with scrolling floral motifs. The upper and lower sections, on both the front and reverse, are inset with circular pale celadon jade plaques. These are variously carved with auspicious Buddhist emblems including the Wheel of Law, parasol, vase, paired fish, lotus blossom, and the character shou (“longevity”), with the reverse arranged in a corresponding decorative scheme.
Although jade carving and enamel production flourished during the mid Qing period, silver openwork objects inset with jade of this type appear to be exceptionally rare. The softness of silver made the creation of such delicate pierced structures technically demanding, while the precise mounting of jade plaques required a particularly high level of craftsmanship. Furthermore, silver objects were especially susceptible to oxidation and damage, making well preserved surviving examples exceedingly uncommon.
It is likely that the present vase was originally conceived as one of a pair, as several of the Buddhist emblems traditionally associated with the complete bajixiang set are absent here and were perhaps intended to appear on the companion piece. Such pairs would likely have been displayed symmetrically upon an altar or reception hall table. The decorative scheme, centred upon Buddhist emblems and longevity motifs, conveys auspicious wishes for protection, prosperity, and long life.