Chinese New Year

Today marks the start of the new Chinese New Year. The festival itself lasts 15 days made up of family gatherings, food rituals, offerings at temples, dressing up and taking part in street parades. It is also a time to wish loved ones good fortune for the future.

It also marks the start of the Year of the Dog. The Chinese zodiac moves in a 12 year cycle and each year has a corresponding animal. Zodiac signs play an integral part in Chinese culture, and can be used to determine your fortune for the year.  The characteristics of those born in the Year of the Dog are not dissimilar to those dogs have. These people are considered to be brave, loyal, and have a strong sense of right and wrong.

At Grays our dealers have a superb collection of Chinese treasures that would make wonderful gift offerings for the new year, here's a small selection:



Pair of Blue and White Porcelain Vases, c.19th century, available from Arts of Asia

Chinese blue and white dish, Kangxi mark and of the period (1662-1722). Available from Guest & Gray

An 18th Century Chinese Famille Rose Export porcelain charger, available at Eau de Nil



Selection of snuff bottles, available at Wheatley Antiques


Blue and white porcelain of the late Ming early Qing period, available from Anita Gray 


Carved Celadon Jade Ornament, Qing dynasty, available from Antique Choices

20th century enamel snuff dish, available from Hongman Yang

This 18th century Chinese moon flask depicts the struggle between a dragon and a phoenix in etched and crackle-glazed porcelain, available from Antique Choices
Xin Nian Kuai Le!

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