Stylized peony fish bowl

The Tree Peony: King of Flowers
Peonies, which grace this covered jar, are the most popular botanical motif in Chinese art. The beautiful tree peony (mudan, fuguihua), a flower associated with royalty and the rich and powerful, symbolizes wealth and honor. Tang dynasty emperors grew peonies in their palace gardens. The many layers of densely packed petals symbolize affluence and prosperity. A popular gift among sweethearts, the peony signifies love and affection and is a symbol of feminine beauty. The flower is a sign of spring and together with the lotus, chrysanthemum, and plum represent the four seasons. The peony is also regarded as an omen of good fortune when it becomes full of beautiful flowers and green leaves. In contrast, the plant can also foreshadow disaster or poverty for its owner if the peony's leaves quickly wither and its flowers suddenly fade.
HIDDEN MEANING: May you be prosperous and may your wishes come true (fugui ruyi).
Stylized peonies with tendril-like leaves decorate this fish jar, which bears a band of ruyi heads along its rim. The wish-granting wand (ruyi ) allegedly grants all wishes.