19th century, a large footed fish bowl finely hand painted on the interior with goldfish and carp swimming amid water plants, the exterior is decorated with gnarled branches laden with peaches and blossoms, goldfish and peaches being symbols of wealth and abundance, the marriage of them together on this bowl makes it very auspicious.

6.5 x 16 in. diameter

From the Collection of Esther B. Ferguson, Secessionville Manor, Charleston, SC

Goldfish bowls have been popular for centuries in China as items to have in a home or courtyard showing the wealth of a household.

Exterior has an area of peeling; a 3 inch area of apparent overpainting that does not dissolve with solvent; rubbing and fading to paint on the fish.

$400 - 800