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His Story Collections Presents
Qing Dynasty Double Phoenix Dragon-Ear Cup
Certified Grade 88 | Chinese Archaistic Ritual & Decorative Art
THE STORY
In traditional Chinese art, few pairings carry more auspicious meaning than the dragon and the phoenix.
The dragon was associated with authority, strength, imperial power and the forces of heaven. The phoenix represented grace, harmony, virtue and renewal. When these two creatures appeared together, they formed one of the most celebrated symbolic combinations in Chinese decorative culture — 龍鳳呈祥, “the dragon and phoenix presenting auspicious harmony.”
This remarkable cup brings that symbolic world into three-dimensional form.
Attributed on its certification label to the Qing Dynasty, the vessel is identified as a “Double Phoenix Pattern Dragon-Ear Cup” — 双凤纹龙耳杯. The body is decorated with elaborate phoenix-inspired relief ornament, while each side terminates in an expressive sculptural dragon-form handle.
The result is not simply a drinking vessel. It is a compact work of Chinese decorative art, combining mythology, craftsmanship and symbolism in a form intended to command attention.
THE DRAGON & PHOENIX
The dragon and phoenix were among the most important mythological creatures in imperial China.
The dragon came to symbolize:
• Imperial authority
• Power and protection
• Heaven and cosmic energy
• Prosperity and good fortune
The phoenix traditionally symbolized:
• Virtue and elegance
• Harmony
• Renewal
• Peace and auspicious fortune
Together, they became a visual expression of balance and harmony, frequently appearing in courtly and ceremonial objects, textiles, porcelain, metalwork and wedding symbolism.
THE VESSEL
This piece follows an archaistic Chinese cup form with a rounded body and paired sculptural handles.
The exterior displays deeply modeled decorative patterns, creating a visually rich surface that changes dramatically under different lighting.
The two dragon-form handles are particularly striking, with curled bodies forming openwork grips at either side of the vessel.
The warm brown surface and aged appearance give the object a strong archaeological and antiquarian character.
CERTIFICATION DETAILS
The certification label identifies the piece as:
Period:
Qing Dynasty / 清
Grade:
极美 88
Height:
44.8 mm
Weight:
116.0 g
Certification Number:
B002060287
Please examine all photographs carefully, including the certification label and presentation case.
IMPORTANT ATTRIBUTION NOTE
This object is offered according to the attribution shown on its accompanying certification label.
His Story Collections has not independently performed metallurgical, archaeological or laboratory testing on the piece. Accordingly, the Qing Dynasty attribution and description should be understood as the opinion represented by the certifying organization.
We encourage collectors to review the photographs carefully and conduct any additional research they consider appropriate.
A PIECE OF CHINESE SYMBOLIC ART
What makes this vessel especially appealing is the combination of form and symbolism.
Viewed simply as a decorative object, it is already visually impressive.
Viewed within the context of traditional Chinese culture, however, it becomes something richer: a representation of two of China's most enduring symbols brought together in one compact ceremonial form.
The dragon represents commanding energy.
The phoenix represents harmony and renewal.
Together, they transform this small vessel into a highly evocative object of Chinese material culture.
DISPLAY & COLLECTION
The piece is housed in a substantial clear presentation case, allowing the vessel to be displayed while remaining protected.
It would make an interesting addition to collections focused on:
• Qing Dynasty objects
• Chinese decorative arts
• Chinese bronzes and metalwork
• Dragon and phoenix symbolism
• Asian antiques
• Archaistic Chinese vessels
• Ritual and ceremonial objects
• Chinese mythology
• Historical curiosities
CONDITION
Please refer closely to all photographs for the actual condition.
Natural surface variation, toning, patination, casting characteristics and age-related marks may be present and should be considered part of the character of this historical-style object.
The exact item shown in the photographs is the item you will receive.
WHY HIS STORY COLLECTIONS?
At His Story Collections, we believe historical objects are more than collectibles.
They are witnesses to the cultures that created them.
From coins and medals to ceremonial objects and decorative arts, each piece offers a tangible connection to another place, another period and another human story.
Carry History With You.
Thank you for visiting His Story Collections.
