Model of a Giant Lingzhi Plant [Ch79]
Jingdezhen, Jiangxi Province; Qing Dynasty, Kangxi period, late 17th century
Porcelain with famille verte enamels (H. 11 cm)
The slightly impressionistic fungus plant issues from rockwork with a bird, possibly a dove, and a smaller plant. The whole is enamelled on the biscuit in deep aubergine, brilliant green and yellow, splashed all over with patches left in white biscuit.
The sacred lingzhi fungus is the emblem of longevity. The design of the ruyi head is taken from it. It grows in the Isle of the Blest.
Literature: Anthony du Boulay, The Duberly Collection of Chinese Art at Winchester College (Winchester, 2019), p. 74
Provenance: Bequeathed as part of the Duberly Collection, 1978; purchased by Major Montagu and Lady Eileen Duberly from John Sparks, 1 May 1948 (£8)
Location: Not on display
