An extremely fine quality example of a clear cast glass vase in the shape of a phoenix standing on top of another phoenix. The vessel is decorated with an outstanding number of details in relief, with the leathers of the mythical animals which are visible individually in some areas. The sinuous shapes of the phoenix are perfectly three dimensional and have as inspiration their rock-crystal counterparts.

Indeed, in the Qing dynasty (1644-1912) glassmaking witnessed a big revival, probably a result of the imperial support, as many ateliers which were working specifically for the palace were established. The creation of these imperial workshops and their openness towards the introduction of western techniques, lead to the flourishing of Chinese glassmaking. Qing glass production was marked by enthusiastic support from the emperor, princes, and high officials and glass objects like the ones presented here were luxury articles. In the Kangxi period (1661-1722, the third emperor of the Qing dynasty) glass imitation of gems reached its peak, with clear glass used in place of rock crystal. Rock crystal was a material treasured by the Chinese people in the same way as they treasured jade and was a symbol of purity.