Interesting hand-carved openwork miniature vase with peony blossoms made from a very hard material, the kernel of a Chinese ‘gânlan’ fruit. A vase is a symbol of Peace in China and Peony flowers represent Wealth and Honor. The vase itself is carved as if it were woven from bamboo strips. Bamboo is a symbol of Humility, Fidelity as well as Peace. This unsigned miniature object has been in our family for as long as we can remember and most probably dates from the 19th century. Length 3.8 cm. Diameter 1.7 cm. Height including stand 6.0 cm.