Chinese blue and white bowl, Wanli (1573 – 1619), decorated to either side with a blossoming jardiniere of peony in moonlight, the rim with two concentric lines in underglaze blue, the interior with a further peony spray, the base with a four character ‘wan fu you tong’ mark, diameter: 11.7cm. (4 5/8in.); condition: chip with old restoration, one hairline, slight nibbling to rim, losses to foot and glaze faults to base and inner rim.  Peonies have been grown for use in traditional Chinese medicine for millennia, and the Chinese characters for peony (‘mu-dan’) can translate to ‘healing’. From the Tang period, thousands of monographs were written on the cultivation of peonies, many aspects of which involved superstitious practices and waiting for a particular phase of the moon. The seeds of certain peonies appear to emit a pale light in the darkness, and according to old Chinese superstition, powerful forces reside in peony blossoms which cause the flower heads to glow on the night of a full moon. Such portrayals of peony heads in moonlight are therefore an auspicious symbol of healing and magic.

**Update** Due to current restrictions our access to some of our stock is limited. Please note that consequently there may be a significant delay in the shipment of purchased items. We will contact buyers in such cases to discuss shipping options.

If you are a customer outside the UK, please contact us for shipping rates. Please note we are not responsible for any import taxes or duties.


As members of the British Antique Dealers' Association (BADA), we are obliged to adhere to their rules of conduct. This means that our cataloguing is of the highest standard.