Painted Enamel Basket with Peonies

The entire body of the enamel basket is covered in yellow enamel. Auspiciously symbolizing wealth and peace, four blooming peonies are prominently featured in red enamel glaze and decorated with two pairs of lotuses. The painted enamel techniques of the Qianlong period were more advanced than those of the previous Kangxi and Yongzheng reigns. This basket is simple in style, yet the gorgeously colored, blooming peonies reflect luxury. This fine work also displays the refined skills necessary to produce the desired effects in the filigree, gilding, and painting.