Straits Chinese Peranakan Wash Basin Stand

Late 19th Century. (1890s)

MYR 11,500.00

A late 19th-century Peranakan wash basin stand intricately
adorned with symbols rich in cultural significance. From top to
bottom, the stand features a pair of dragons and phoenixes
among peonies. In Chinese culture this pairing, known as ⻰ 凤
(lóng fèng), represents the ultimate harmony and balance in
marriage, with the dragon symbolizing the male and the
phoenix symbolizing the female, embodying the concept of Yin
and Yang. The motif is referred to as “⻰凤呈祥” (lóng fèng
chéng xiáng) in Mandarin.

The center of the washbasin is decorated with the motifs of
the Eight Immortals (八 仙, Bāxiān), symbolizing blessings such
as longevity, prosperity, and happiness. Additionally, the edges
of the basin stand are adorned with squirrels and peaches,
symbolising fertility and abundance.

(H) 203cm x (L) 52cm x (D) 58cm