Bowl, anonymous, c. 1875 - c. 1894
This bowl is an imitation of a design commissioned by Empress Dowager Cixi (1835-1908), as can be recognized by her seal and the decoration of birds perched on wisteria branches. She was closely involved in the design process and production. As regent of two underage emperors, Cixi was one of the most powerful women of her time and de facto ruler of China for almost 50 years.