Qing Dynasty, finely cast copper body gilded Taiping Youxiang ornaments, a pair

Qing Dynasty, finely cast copper body gilded Taiping Youxiang ornaments, a pair[Specifications] Height 31.5cm Width 29.2cm Single weight about 6.4 kg[Details]Elephants are auspicious animals, heavy and steady, and can carry treasure bottles, so there are sayings such as “Taiping Youxiang” and “Xiang Xiang Shengping”, which means that the river is clear and the sea is peaceful, and the people are healthy and prosperous. “Han Shu·Wang Mang Biography” says: “The world is peaceful and the grains are ripe.” Taiping Youxiang means that the world is peaceful and the grains are abundant. Lu You once wrote a poem saying: “Taiping Youxiang is known by heaven and man, and the wheat is pounded in the south and east”, and the elephant has become a symbol of auspiciousness and joy.This collection is a pair of treasure elephants carrying bottles, carved with copper gilding and engraving techniques. The color is golden, bright and dazzling. The elephant lowers its head and turns to one side, with its nose curled and four legs upright. It is wearing a gorgeous shawl, with tassels all over its body, and each carrying a treasure bottle on its back. The vase has a wide mouth, a bulging belly, and a high ring foot. The outer wall of the mouth is decorated with patterns, and there is a pair of elephant handles. The surface of the belly is also decorated with ribbons and necklaces. This pair of ornaments has a thick body, ancient and elegant connotation, rich patina, and is gilded all over. The craftsmanship is exquisite, which means auspiciousness—peace and prosperity.