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Hexagonal Lantern

1723-1735
Artist/maker unknown, Chinese

This delicate porcelain lantern is so light in the hand that it feels almost weightless. Candles placed within it would have glowed and flickered through the intricate lattice designs, which required great skill to achieve due to the extremely thin clay. It was not until the early 1700s that artists developed this piercing technique.

Auspicious Decoration

The four flowers within the central medallions on the six sides—the camellia, rose, peony, and lily—convey peace, unity, and longevity.


Object Details

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