Celadon-Glazed Relief ‘Double-Gourd’ Vase, Qianlong Style
A double-gourd vase covered in a rich olive-green douqing celadon glaze pooling over low-relief gourd vines and curling tendrils.
The vase is potted in the classic double-gourd (hulu) form, with two rounded lobes rising in harmonious proportion from a neatly finished foot to a gently constricted waist and short neck. The silhouette is full and fluid, exemplifying the balanced elegance associated with Qianlong-period aesthetics.
Covered overall in a rich douqing (celadon) glaze of soft olive-green tone, the surface is thickly applied and lustrous, pooling subtly in the recesses to accentuate the relief decoration. Finely modeled in low relief, the exterior is adorned with curling gourd vines and tendrils, their organic movement creating a gentle interplay of light and shadow beneath the glaze. The combination of sculptural ornament and monochrome glaze produces a refined, jade-like visual effect.
The form and decoration carry layered auspicious meaning: the double gourd is a homophone for “blessings and rank” (fu lu), while the abundant vines and seeds symbolize fertility, prosperity, and continuity. Together, they express wishes for “enduring fortune, longevity, and flourishing generations.”
Please note: Dimensions are based on the present example. As each piece is individually fired, slight variations are inherent to the making process.
Begin a
Conversation.
Every meaningful cultural engagement begins with a conversation.