Vietnamese Bleu de Hue Porcelain Rice Bowl W/Fenghuang, Buddhist Scroll & Metal Rim (Has Nei Fu Mark) From a Vietnamese Royal Family - This stunning porcelain rice bowl is elaborately decorated in underglazed blue with a delightful flying fenghuang (phoenix) to the front and a pair of Buddhist scrolls bound with ribbon to the back. It is believed that the Fenghuang only appears in areas or places that are blessed with utmost peace and prosperity or happiness. It is a symbol of high virtue and grace, and is said to represent power sent from the heavens to the Empress. The bowl is finished with a metal rim, as selected vessels were finished with rims of silver as early as the Han dynasty to set them apart from the ordinary and to make them suitable for high class clients. The interior is left undecorated, and the bottom of the base bears the two character Nei Fu mark meaning "Inner Court". This very high quality porcelain was ordered from China for the court use. Although Chinese artisans executed the painting, Vietnamese rulers dictated the designs. Each ruler ordered ceramics of his own liking for use in his court, as well as presentation pieces to give to members of royal families and mandarin officials. This is an absolutely stunning investment piece that truly belongs in a museum. This piece comes from the estate of a Vietnamese Royal Family (the family now lives in the United States, and wishes to remain private as they still have relatives living in Vietnam). Measurements: 2.5"H x 5" diameter.