Description:

Egrets (a type of bird like a heron) are shown here with sprays of lotus flowers. The white feathers of egrets do not become stained even when they dive in the muddy waters where lotuses thrive. In China egrets shown with lotuses became symbols for government officials who are not corrupted by their surroundings.

Glass, carved in relief
Height: 6.1 cm, diameter: 11.7 cm

Creator: Unknown

Date: 1770-1830, Qing dynasty

Copyright: Bristol Museums, Galleries & Archives

Object ID:N4645