Tureen. China, Quianlong period, 18th century. Enamelled porcelain. Measurements: 10 x 19 x 13 cm. Tureen made in enamelled ceramics that presents a decoration with oriental motifs, like villages with pagodas, typical of the Qianlong epoch they were made for the export market to Europe. The lid has a handle in the shape of a Foo dog, an important symbol in Chinese Taoist culture and, because of its influence, also in Japanese and Thai culture. It is identified with protection against evil spirits, which is why they are usually represented in pairs at the entrance of temples, imperial tombs, palaces, government buildings, etc. They are also known as Imperial Guardians, and were very common in traditional Chinese art. The Qianlong emperor, belonging to the Qing dynasty, ruled China between 1736 and 1795, and is remembered to this day as one of the most cultured emperors and one of the most important in terms of art collecting. His long reign was a particularly interesting moment in Chinese history. At that time, the country was the richest and most populous nation in the world. Qianlong was able to preserve and foster his own Manchu warrior and hunter traditions, and combine them with the adoption of Confucian principles of political and cultural leadership, thus achieving an effective and stable government. Indeed, it was his ability to adopt Chinese customs while honouring his Manchu tradition that made him one of the most successful emperors of the Qing dynasty. Qianlong studied Chinese painting, and especially enjoyed the art of calligraphy, which was highly regarded in this culture, indeed conceived as the highest of the arts.