Potted Landscape with Plum Blossoms and Coral

The potted landscapes (penjing) made during the Qing dynasty (1644–1911) were fashioned with materials such as gold, silver, gems, jade, coral, and ivory. Since the plants in these artificial scenes never withered, the potted displays were treasured for symbolizing eternal spring. Around the Spring Festival, works with plum blossoms, narcissus, and orchids would be placed throughout the palace. With over 300 gems and pearls, this potted scene is made with gilded silver filigree, inlaid seed pearls, coral, jade, and rubies.

Translated and edited by Adam J. Ensign and Zhuang Ying