A GOOD 'FAMILLE-ROSE' TURQUOISE-GROUND 'MELON' JAR JIAQING MARK

the body of ovoid form rising from a short foot with recessed base to a short waisted neck and everted rim, brightly enamelled around the exterior with butterflies amidst fruiting melon vine reserved on a turquoise ground, all between a lotus-lappet band at the base and a ruyi collar and classic scroll band at the neck, the interior and foot glazed turquoise

John Sparks Ltd., London (label).

The symbol of melons and butterflies is an auspicious one and forms the rebus for 'numerous descendants'. The melon with its many seeds is the symbol of many sons and grandsons, while the butterfly symbolizes blessings, happiness and longevity. It is said that the philosopher Zhuangzi (Mencius) dreamed that he was a butterfly and flew around in a carefree manner enjoying himself and drinking the nectar from the flowers. Butterfies hence came to represent joy and happiness.