This guan-shaped pot is decorated with water birds, insects, plants and flowers all in a silver-blue under a crackled glaze. The band on the shoulder contains Buddhist symbols and around the base is a lotus pattern border. The base is slightly sunken, glazed and unmarked. The Chinese language is full of homonyms and allowed artists to express wishes and aspirations by depicting animals in particular settings. Ducks and geese are symbols of conjugal happiness for they are reputed to pair for life.