Collection of Stephen Junkunc, III (d. 1978).

Exploiting the vo🐼latile properties of underglaze copper red pigments that overfire to produce a subtle green tone, the present design of sea creatures and aquatic plants is rendered with a remarkable degree of naturalism and vibrancy.

Gliding along the bulbous belly of the vase are four vividly painted fish. Scholars have suggested that this configuration – likely depicting mackerel (li), whitefish (baiyu), silver carp (lian) and Chinese perch (jue) – may serve as a rebus for the adage qingbai lianjie ('pure and incorruptible'), signifying a wish for scholarly success through honest means🏅.