A Qing dynasty Tongzhi reign (1861 - 1875) garden stool lends its form to a perfectly sized pewter travel caddy. 24K gilt ogival panels on either side frame examples of the ‘bird and flower’ category of Chinese painting. The peacock, symbolic of rank and wealth, stands amongst sprays of peonies and plum blossoms, whilst a pair of phoenixes, representative of beauty and harmony, perch on rockery surrounded by peonies. The classic double-coin motif, symbolising the welcoming of prosperity, is cunningly worked as a finger grip on the threaded single-layer lid.

About the collection
A modern expression in pewter of extravagantly coloured nonya ware, unique to the Peranakan communities of Penang, Malacca and Singapore.