Original design maker stamp (Chinese characters). The red seal reads "華榮堂制" (Huá Róng Táng Zhì), which translates to "Made for the Hall of Glorious Flowers" or "Made by the Hua Rong Tang Studio
The first monteiths originated around Circa 1680 and were originally used to keep stemmed wine cups/glasses cold with the bowl being filled with iced water to maintain the chilled temperature. This item became a necessity and was used at buffets and before formal dinners.
The inside is beautifully decorated with Koi fish design (see images)Small porcelain bowl, a scalloped edge and 3d designs of a lion's head. Such vases were made in China, with examples dating from the Qing Dynasty to the mid-20th century
