A RED POTTERY ‘DOUBLE FISH’ TILE, SECOND HALF OF THE MING DYNASTYChina, c. 16th-17th century. Of rectangular form, molded with a quadrilobed cartouche enclosing a larger and a smaller carp swimming underwater in a lotus pond, with lotus stems issuing buds and leaves as well as further aquatic plants in the background, the corners decorated with flowerheads.Provenance: British trade.Condition: Good condition with some wear, small chips, few nicks, some losses, two apertures drilled for mounting, and manufacturing flaws including firing cracks, and soil encrustations. The reverse with two mounts for suspension.Weight: 7.5 kgDimensions: Size 45.7 x 29 x 5.2 cmAccording to Chinese belief, the double fish brings good fortune, abundance, and good luck to one’s descendants. At weddings, the double fish symbol represents the meaning of a harmonious union between the couple. It also carries the meaning of fertility, a surplus of happiness, marital bliss, and sensual pleasure.明代後半期紅陶雙魚紋磚中國，約十六至十七世紀。長方形，開光内一對大小鯉魚在荷塘中游動，其四周荷花、藕與水草環繞。四角飾有花卉紋。