Vase with Melon and Butterfly Designs in Contrasting Colors

The melon-and-butterfly pattern acquired its name from its homonym guadie, meaning “small melon”. Although melons are very small during the initial stage of growth, their vines extend endlessly. Images of small melons, therefore, symbolize a family‘s endless succession of grandsons. The circular foot and its interior are glazed white. The inscription on the foot indicates a Jiaqing era of production.