Double Vase with Decoration of Phoenix, Chimera, and Chi-Dragon

Culture: Chinese
Dynasty: Qing dynasty, 1644–1911
Period: possibly Qianlong period, 1736–1795
Period: possibly Jiaqing period, 1796–1820
Date: late 18th–early 19th century
Material: Bronze with gold and silver inlay
from: China, Asia
Classification: Containers, metalwork
Collection: Asian Art
Current Location: On View, Gallery 229
Dimensions: 18 1/8 x 13 3/8 in. (46 x 34 cm)
Credit Line: Gift of Robert E. Kresko
Rights: Public Domain
Object Number: 18:2005

NOTES

In popular belief, the double vase, as seen here, is known as as a nuptial cup. The two halves of the vessel are connected by a hidden channel that kept the level of wedding wine equal regardless of how much was drunk from one side. This design represents the ideal of an equitable and stable marriage.

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