Plate with peacocks and flowers

Peacocks: Birds of Culture

Though not a native species of China, the peacock, probably introduced from South Asia, is widely admired for its elegance, beauty, and dignity. The Book of Changes calls the peacock (kongque) a cultured bird. Its presence brings civilization to the world and drives away evil. It has nine virtues: a proper appearance, a clear voice, a graceful walk, punctuality, a restrained appetite, contentment, loyalty to its group, morality, and the ability to learn from its faults. Peacock tail feathers represent rank and status. During the Ming dynasty, the peacock began to serve as insignia for official rank and continued to do so until the Republican era. Triple-eyed peacock feathers denoted the highest rank, whereas lower ranking officials wore two- or one-eyed feathers.

HIDDEN MEANING: May the world be enlightened (tianxia wenming); May blooming flowers bring you prosperity (huakai fugui).

Four peacocks decorate this plate, together with various flowers of the seasons. When many flowers bloom together, they present an auspicious occasion.