Ginger jar in blue and white porcelain with continuous decoration of the three Friends of Winter and houses in a landscape. Origin China, early 20th century The three friends of winter, also known as the three friends of the cold, the three friends of the cold season, or Suihan Sanyou, refer to the following three plants: pine, bamboo and Japanese apricot (or prunus). Each year, as winter approaches, most plants begin to die back. This is not the case with the pine, bamboo and Japanese apricot, which is why they are called this name in China. They have entered into the conventions of Asian art, and together they embody the virtues of perseverance, integrity and modesty. They are highly respected as such in Confucianism, and represent the essential qualities of the learned man. The jar is in good condition, hair at the base. Dimension: height: 13cm (5.11'') base: 9cm (3.54'') We take great care in packaging our products.