Accession Number

983.395.001.001

Description

A Chinese Qing Dynasty bronze temple vase, circa 1800, made using the lost-wax casting method, the topmost section a long narrow neck with a ridged rim slightly flared out, the body of vase two bulbous forms, the top smaller than the lower, both with highly-detailed three-dimensional cast decoration in the form of one orb, two bats, clouds, and five dragons with long winding tails. The circular base is about one-half the width of the bottom section and seats inside the rim of the circa 1800 rosewood stand (983.395.1.2). 

Narrative

On this cast-bronze vase, the five dragons are contending for possession of the orb, or 'flaming jewel', which symbolizes the Universe. The dragon, especially a five clawed one, is considered very auspicious and a good creature in Chinese culture. In the context of this vase, they represent the Emperor. The clouds on the vase are in the shape of Ling Zhi (pronounced Ling Jeur). The bats are a symbol of happiness. The Ling Zhi shape is evident in the base (983.395.001.002) as well.

This vase was probably originally one in a pair, and was possibly used in a temple to hold wooden flowers. It is not considered an urn, nor was it used for holding sand in the context of burning incense. It should be noted that the donor, the late Vincent Clinton Maddock (d.1972), donated three oil paintings by Frederick Schafer that he bought at the Craigdarroch Castle Estate auction held in June 1909.

History of Use

The donor of this vase, Vincent Clinton Maddock, acquired this vase in circa 1912 when it was sent to him by two cousins who were missionaries living in China. Mr. Maddock was living in Winnipeg at this time but later lived in Vancouver, BC, where he died on October 20, 1972.

Minutes of The Castle Society's Annual General Meeting held November 25, 1972 record that members were informed of the bequest. This notice was followed by Mr. Nesbitt's written report to members dated November 15, 1974 in which he said the Maddock painting(s) and bronze vase were in the Castle. 

Date

circa 1800

Dimensions

57.8 x 31 cm
31 cm Diameter

Material

Metal, bronze

Technique

Lost wax cast

Country of Origin

China