White porcelain double-gourd vase glazed in blue underglaze, decorated with figures in landscapes, China, Transition period (1626-1683) Globular in shape, the lower body is decorated with a scene showing a figure presenting books to a dignitary followed by his three assistants. The first holds a halberd ji, the second a canopy and the third a horse by the bridle. Around them, bamboo, a banana tree, a weeping willow, pine trees and rocks in the clouds. Friezes of banana leaves and stylized foliage adorn the narrowed central part of the vase, while the slightly swollen upper part shows two scholars seated in the same landscape style as before. The cut neck reveals the beginnings of a tulip-flower decoration specific to this period. Formerly mounted in bronze, only the upper part remains, with a hoop and a stopper-like grip. Height: 31 cm Ground foot, wax residue on bottom, cut neck.