Chinese Famille Rose Lid with Endless Knot Mark, Daoguang period 1821-1850

A Daoguang period lid painted in bright Famille Rose enamels with ‘the four gentlemen of flowers’: lotus, orchid, bamboo and chrysanthemum. Chrysanthemums in particular are associated with longevity and wealth, because the name sounds similar to the word jiu, meaning ‘long enduring’, and infusions made from their petals are believed to have medicinal properties. They each bear an endless knot mark in iron red enamel. The endless knot is one of the eight auspicious Buddhists signs which represent the offerings made by the gods to Shakyamuni Buddha immediately after he gained enlightenment. It is a sign of longevity or endless love.

The lid is in excellent condition with no cracks or restoration. The foot is carefully potted and trimmed with fine white clay. Some kiln grit and firing bubbles, typical of its age.