Blue-glazed porcelain plate, Hué blue, China for Vietnam, 18th century Decorated with two confronting kỳ lân (kirin / qilin), one in clouds symbolizing the celestial dimension, the other in foaming waves, symbolizing the terrestrial and cosmic dimension. On the reverse, a six-character mark in blue underglaze Nội Phủ Thị Đông, 内府侍東 - "Inner residence, eastern district or enclosure". Porcelain commissioned by the Trinh lords for the heir lord. Diameter: 19.2 cm Chips, fels, chip at foot.