Porcelain pillow which once may have been owned by an opium smoker. It is decorated in blue and white with Chrysanthemums in a vase, as well as with Peonies, Finger citrons and Pomegranates. Chrysanthemums (juhua) and Peonies (mudan) form a pun ‘May you enjoy a Long life, Wealth, and Honor’ (changshou fugui). The Chrysanthemum symbolizes Longevity and another name for the Peony is ‘Flower of Wealth and Honor’ (fuguihua). The vase (ping) represents Peace. The Finger Citron (foshou) symbolizes Blessings (fu) and Longevity (shou) and the Pomegranate represents a wish for Many Sons because of its numerous seeds. The pillow dates from the Guangxu period (1875 – 1908). Length 29 cm. Height 13.5 cm. Width 12 cm.