China, 19th century. Neatly modeled in the form of a leaf. The body detailed with a raised midrib flanked by veins forming borders, each enclosing an attribute of one of the Eight Immortals tied with a billowing ribbon. The furled tip further decorated with a peach and a Shou character. The back with apertures for mounting.

Provenance: London trade.
Condition: Very good condition with minor wear and manufacturing flaws including pitting, dark spots, burst bubbles, spur marks, and glaze recesses.

Weight: 257.5 g
Dimensions: Length 14.6 cm, Width 9.2 cm

The attributes of the eight Immortals symbolize Daoism, transmutation, and happiness. Each of the symbols is the attribute of one of the Eight Immortals. They include the double gourd of Li Tieguai, containing all medicines; the fan of Zhongli Quan, resurrecting the dead; the flower basket of Lan Caihe, the patron of florists and a symbol of delusive pleasure; the bamboo rod of Zhang Guo, representing old age and longevity; the lotus of He Ziangu; the sword of Lu Dongbin, ridding the world of all evil; the flute of Han Xiangsi, an emblem of harmony; and the castanets of Cao Guojiu, the patron saint of theater actors.