Magpie & Plum Blossom Juxtaposition

This remarkable lot is exquisitely painted in delicate blue and white depicting magpie and flowering plum tree that are often in pairs.

Before being painted as beautiful motif called “花鳥畫” or Huāniǎo huà, this exceptional combination of these two elements often appeared in paintings created during the Six Dynasties period, a collective term for six Han-ruled Chinese dynasties from 220 AD – 589 AD. Many artists were keen in painting such beautiful motif of birds and flowers which later had a vital influence on figurative motifs of ceramics in the Tang, Song and Yuan dynasties before being widespread in the Ming and Qing periods.

Similar to Feng Shui, this kind of motif incorporates the natural world with teachings. Unlike humans, birds can fly, therefore there is a connection with heaven and God.

Typically known as “birds of joy” in Chinese culture, magpie is small, intelligent, and chatty. It is often depicted in paintings in believing that it can bring good luck. Magpie is often found in pair to represent love and marital happiness. Many artworks illustrate it with plum blossom, bamboo, and any natural elements for auspicious meanings.

Regarding plum blossom, it also delivers a subtle meaning. It is called 梅花” or Méihuā in Chinese. This kind of plants will bloom in January, therefore it is very familiar during the New Year and Chinese New Year festivities in winter. Blossoming in the cold month suggests it as a symbol of strength and resilience. It also embodies the virtues of modesty and humbleness, making it different from other kinds of flowers often in bloom during spring and summer.

To put it simply, this exceptional highlight lot brings aesthetics into a deeper meaning worth collecting.

Lot 671

A pair of blue and white porcelain covered bowls painted with magpie birds perching plum branches (2 pcs.)

Style: Chinese

Dimensions: W 14 cm. H 8 cm.

Circa: 19th century

Starting Price: 8,000 THB

Estimated Price: 8,000 – 10,000 THB

Bid this lot here