Miniature Chinese garden

Qianlong period miniature Chinese garden with a plum tree in coral, a pine tree in carved wood and ivory, tinted ivory bamboos. They symbolize longevity, perseverance and integrity since they can all endure cold weather and are known as the three friends of winter. The garden has tree fungus in mother of pearl, ivory cranes and rocks in malachite and rose quartz - these are also symbols of longevity. The stand is made of rosewood and mother of pearl - the shell plaques are pierced with a dragon and lotus design.

Object Details

ID: OBJ0568
Type: Miniature garden
Display location: Not on display
Date made: 18th century; ca.1740 ?
Exhibition: Traders: The East India Company and Asia
People: Anson, George
Credit: National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London
Measurements: Overall: 444 mm x 419 mm x 260 mm