A stunning deep cobalt colored lobbed dish from the Kangxi period, decorated with a central scene of two geese in a garden scene with flowering peonies. The lobbed border shows lappets decorated with six butterflies and six panels containing different flowers in a almost "Kraak" style. Butterflies are still a popular symbol in China. The Chinese characters for "butterfly" is 蝴蝶 (hú dié). The first character 蝴 (hú) has a similar sound as the character 福 (fú) for "good fortune." This is why butterflies are symbols of good luck. The second character 蝶 (dié) has the same sound as the character 耋 for "the elders." So butterflies are often seen in artwork celebrating a long life. In China geese are considered romantic, symbolizing loyalty and marital happiness. They are said to fly always in pairs and to mate for life, even remaining solitary if a mate dies. Flying geese are also believed to deliver good news, and mean the best of luck. The dish is marked at the bottom with a Artemisia leaf within a double ring. PROVENANCE: VAN DER VEN & VAN DER VEN ANTIQUAIRS (Currently: Vanderven Oriental Art) Conditions (UV checked): Very good condition. One UV reactive spot on the rim with tiny glaze line >1mm. See pictures. Dimensions: W15,7 x H3,6 cm (approx.) Shipping method: The item will be securely packaged and shipped with insurance, without stand or miniature teapot.