Peacock Geisha

Name: Peacock Geisha
 
Type: Porcelain Brush Pot
 
Year: Likely Republic period (1912–1949), possibly early-mid 20th century
 
Set: No
 
Mark: None - Unknown Chinese artisan
 
History: This cylindrical porcelain brush pot features a beautifully detailed overglaze enamel decoration of a female immortal or celestial maiden, floating among stylized clouds and carrying lotus blossoms — symbols associated with purity, immortality, and good fortune in Daoist and Buddhist traditions.
 
 
The inscription in Chinese includes what is likely a poetic dedication, possibly reading as a blessing for longevity or virtue. While the base of the piece is unmarked, the red square seal and vertical calligraphy are typical of mid-20th-century export porcelain and studio wares from Jingdezhen.
 
 
The enameling is finely executed using a transfer technique with added hand detailing, as evidenced by the stippling and outlines seen on close inspection. The style is consistent with Republic-era aesthetic preferences that revived Qing motifs but with more commercial export orientation. The unglazed foot rim and the recessed base also support this attribution.
 
Flaws: None