The kamcheng is Hokkien for ‘covered vessel’. It is a tub like container with a wide mouth and low collar. Larger containers usually bear a finial in the shape of a crouching or standing Buddhist lion, such as this piece. The function of the kamcheng is uncertain, though it was one of the three important wares in Peranakan Chinese wedding ceremonies and used to bring various types of foods and sweetmeats to the bridal chamber. This piece has motifs of a phoenix, with bright rose pink, blue and yellow feathers, in flight, and a spray of peony blossoms. Birds in flight were considered auspicious symbols of freedom in the Chinese culture. The phoenix, a mythical long tailed bird, represents virtue of and can also symbolise the bride in wedding ceremonies and the Empress. Peonies symbolise several things, among them good fortune and nobility. The motifs are set against an apple green enamelled background, which is the colour that symbolises youth and spring in the Chinese culture.
