A Chinese Porcelain Blue and White Jar with "Three Friends of Winter"

Qing dynasty (1644-1912), 18th or 19th century, porcelain hand-painted in underglaze blue with large pine, plum and bamboo trees, lingzhi surround the base, underside with two blue circles, with later reticulated wood cover, presented on a carved wooden stand.

11 3/4 in., 10 in. diameter; Jar only 9 1/2 in.

The "Three Friends of Winter" is an auspicious grouping of pine, plum, and bamboo. The pine represents longevity by staying evergreen, the bamboo represents strength for its ability to bend and not break, and the plum represents perseverance, blooming through the harsh snow of winter. These attributes are admired throughout Asia.

Hairline with associated chips to area of rim; a few faint short hairlines to underside; some breaks with small losses to reticulated wood cover.