Enormous paired "Crane" vases. The vases are made of light-colored ceramic and covered with vibrant cobalt painting, with gilded handles and lid caps. The main motif of the painting is a pair of cranes against a backdrop of trees and a pond. Cranes are monogamous birds, and for this reason, in the folk traditions of many Eastern cultures, they are associated with strong marital bonds and family happiness. The depicted pair serves as a wish for a long and lasting family happiness; cranes are also a symbol of the sun, associated with peace and light. The vases retain their original finials. The top and "handles" of the vases are stylized as figures of Fo dogs and knotted cords. Fo dogs, or Fo lions, sometimes called Fo karashishi, were believed by the inhabitants of the Japanese islands to have the ability to ward off evil spirits and combine the symbolism of strength and good fortune. China, 20th century.