A MIRROR PAIR OF ‘NINE DRAGONS’ FAMILLE ROSE PORCELAIN PHOENIX TAIL VASES, FENGWEIZUN CHINA, 20TH CENTURY, POSSIBLY REPUBLIC / MINGUO PERIOD The bodies of elongated egg-shaped form, with waisted shoulders surmounted by trumpet necks applied at their base with molded mythical beast handles with loose rings imitation. Finely painted in vivid famille rose enamels with nine five-clawed dragons flying amidst crashing waves against a green ground and with lotus scrolls against a dark ground. The bases are painted in black with an apocryphal six-character mark of Kangxi emperor in kaishu script. H (each): 56,5 cm Note: The dragon (long 龙) is one of the twelve animals of the Chinese zodiac, which is believed to live in the mountains or in the seas and can fly into the heavens. Unlike the dragons of Europe, the Chinese dragon symbolizes benevolence, prosperity, longevity and the renewal of life. Ancient Chinese believed the dragon brought rain, good harvests and fertility. The dragon is the symbol of the emperor when it has five claws. In this case there are nine dragons, and this use of the sacred number nine reinforces the idea of an imperial connection, which here is only for a decorative purpose, as the vases are later. 一对镜面九龙粉彩凤尾尊 中国，20世纪，晚清至民国 NOTE: CONDITION REPORTS AND MEASUREMENTS It is up to the bidder to satisfy themselves prior to buying as to the condition of a lot. In relation to Condition Reports, whilst we make certain observations on the lot, which are intended to be as helpful as possible, references in the condition report to damage or restoration are for guidance. The absence of such a reference does not imply that an item is free from defects or restoration, nor does a reference to particular defects imply the absence of any others. The condition report is an expression of opinion only and must not be treated as a statement of fact. Measurements and weight are approximate and the potential bidder may re-ask it to be checked when asking for a condition report.