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The central emerald has been subtly incised with a many-petaled lotus flower, a symbol of the sun, suggesting the radiance of the outsize gem. The enameling on the back depicts a peacock with a pair of peahens amid flowers. Peacocks signal the monsoon rains. The refined use of enamel indicates that this piece was assembled in the specialized workshops of Jaipur, but the size of the emerald suggests that it was made for imperial use.
Northwestern India, Rajasthan, Rajput Kingdom of Jaipur
Gold, emerald, diamonds, enamel, and pearl
Overall: 7.4 x 4.8 cm (2 15/16 x 1 7/8 in.)
Did you know...
The bright color of the emerald indicates it was sourced in South America.
Bequest of Anne Jessop Smith
H. 3 in. (7.6 cm); W. 12 3/4 in. (32.4 cm); D. 6 1/4 in. (15.9 cm)
medium: Earthenware
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY 10.202.8 1910
Rogers Fund, 1910
Long, rectangular tables were often placed against a wall to hold candlestands, flower vases, or incense burners. It was customary to hang ancestor portraits, images of religious figures, or seasonal paintings above the table that would convey auspicious wishes and blessings to the family. <br><br>The high legs show stylized cloud-shaped spandrels. At each end of the table, between the recessed legs, are carved openwork panels with a lively dragon motif.
China, Ming dynasty (1368-1644) or Qing dynasty (1644-1911)
Rosewood (huanghuali)
Overall: 86.4 x 199.4 x 41.9 cm (34 x 78 1/2 x 16 1/2 in.)
Did you know...
The table top is made of a single plank of wood.
Severance and Greta Millikin Collection