Page 463 - Chinese Porcelain Vol I, Galland

MARKS.
249
lotus (No. 24), the knot (No. 29), and the shell (No. 26) seem
to have been
employed.
Of the symbols of the eight immortals, the gourd (No.
alone to have been in favour as
16) appears a mark, pro-
bably in its capacity as an emblem of longevity. Musical
instruments do not occur frequently, and then generally the
lute.
In connection with the scholar, one or more of the five
of the occur
precious things library occasionally ; but under
this heading the mark generally takes the form of the pi ting
No.
joo-e (see 88).
The joo-e, as the sceptre of longevity alone, or combined
with some other article, or it may be merely the head of the
joo-e (see Nos. 51, 52).
The for No.
symbol full, happiness (see 50).
The swastika (see Nos. 40, 41, 42).
Four-legged vase (see Nos. 260,' 293, 328). This mark is
often to be met with, and has been called a modelling table, as
also an incense burner ; but we probably see its origin in the
scroll-stand, as shown in No. 55, so that the present name
of four-legged vase is near enough.
Tripod incense burners of various shapes (see 478, 479).
Among animals, the hare is perhaps the most common
(see Nos. 280, 381, 485).
The bat appears alone or in conjunction with the peach
No.
(see 49).
Of birds, the stork is most used, no doubt to
owing its
being an emblem of longevity.
Among insects, the butterfly, and others that it is im-
to name.
possible
The fungus is not uncommon as a mark (see Nos. 47, 48).
Of flowers, in addition to the lotus, there are but
many,
they are generally so roughly drawn that it is impossible to
which are intended.
say
Those interested in this had better refer to Sir
subject
A. W. Franks's book, where most of the " Hall " and other
inscribed marks are There are also a number of
given. repro-
ductions of Chinese marks in Mr. Chaffers's book of
symbol
" '
Marks and Monograms ; but, unfortunately, as yet, the
same are of little avail to the student of Chinese
practical
R 2