Shallow, straight-sided bowl with lotus plant, swimming duck and butterflies c. 1725 - 1749

This shallow bowl, adorned with lotus plants, a swimming duck, and butterflies, was crafted anonymously in China. Its delicate imagery offers a glimpse into the cultural values of its time. The lotus, a symbol of purity and enlightenment in Buddhism, suggests a spiritual undercurrent within Chinese society. The presence of the duck and butterflies, symbols of happiness and longevity, further enriches the bowl's symbolic language. These motifs, combined with the refined porcelain and meticulous painting, speak to the sophisticated artistic traditions upheld by China's imperial workshops and the elite consumers they served. To fully understand this bowl, we can delve into historical texts, religious scriptures, and studies of Chinese decorative arts. By situating the object within its social and cultural context, we can appreciate its deeper significance as a reflection of China's values, beliefs, and artistic achievements.