Description:

The person who first owned this brush pot probably understood easily the lucky symbols in its three panels:

The three rams with the sun (san yang kai tai) are a play on words meaning a new start with auspicious (promising/favourable) possibilities and chances for wealth.

The picture refers to the cosmic force yang in the yin / yang model of harmony in the universe. The word for ram (yang) sounds the same and the sun is thought to be the most powerful source of yang energy.

Cranes and a pine tree, both symbols of long life.

Deer and a pine tree, both symbols of long life.

Glass, painted in enamels
Height: 11.0 cm, diameter: 4.1 cm

Creator: Unknown

Date: 1800-1850, Qing dynasty

Copyright: Bristol Museums, Galleries & Archives

Object ID:N4724