This large wash basin is notable for the auspicious designs at the centre, featuring two phoenix amidst peonies set against a white background. The phoenix and peony are recurring motifs found on Chinese Peranakan wedding garments and porcelain. The phoenix is the traditional emblem of the empress while the peony is a symbol for prosperity. The auspicious designs indicates that this is a specially commissioned piece.As part of the wedding gifts, the bride's father would present a large bridal basin. It would have been placed on a washstand in the bridal room. The bride would use it to serve warm water to her husband during the couple's stay at the bride's home during the 12-day wedding.
