Guanxu mark (1875-1903), “1000 bats” vase Chinese Famille rose Hu vase, double eared. Fencai marked vessel with auspicious design “Baopuzi”, attributed to an alchemist and philosopher of the Eastern Jin dynasty (317 – 420) Ge Hong, states that thousand-year-old bats grant immortality. In art, the bat, itself alluding to the concept of blessing, is often combined with the symbols of long life and immortality. Impressive tall Hu-shape vase decorated with numerous tiny stylized orange bats and gilded stag head handles. Height: 14.75 inches = 37.46 cm; Diameter: 10.5 inches = =27.5 cm; Upper opening diameter: 5.6 inches = 14.4 cm; Base diameter: 6 inches = 15 cm; Weight: 11 kg = 24.25 lb. Condition: broken and repaired ear (golden horn); Provenance: private collection in St Petersburg, Florida, USA. Age: unknown.