This large dish is decorated in overglaze red enamels with a pair of five-clawed dragons chasing a flaming pearl. The motifs also include 'ruyi'-shaped clouds. The five-clawed dragons suggests that this bowl was intended for the use of the Guangxu emperor. A six-character Guangxu reign mark is on the base. During the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing periods, specific motifs such as five-clawed dragons indicated imperial rank and privilege. Five-clawed dragons were used to represent the emperor.Ruyi, literally means 'having everything you wish for' in the Chinese language and a popular motif that was incorporated in Chinese ceramic wares.
