Description:

An egret (a type of bird like a heron) is shown here on a lotus leaf. 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. If you gave someone a present with a design like this it would mean you thought they were good and honest.

Glass, carved overlay
Height: 7.7 cm, diameter: 12.5 cm, neck diameter: 7.5 cm
Mark of Qianlong reign (1736-1795), but later in date

Creator: Unknown

Date: 1800-1900, Qing dynasty

Copyright: Bristol Museums, Galleries & Archives

Object ID:N4653