Two 19th century Chinese Da Ya Zhai style vases, Guangxu period (1875-1908) the first with foliate everted rim applied with gilded guardian lions to the neck and four chi-long dragons around the shoulder, painted with black and gilt dragons breathing red flames amongst blossoming chrysanthemum and peony branches, 20 cm high, the second of baluster form and domed cover with gilded guardian lion finial over a single applied dragon encircling the neck, painted with a similar design over a yellow lotus scroll band around the foot, 27 cm high Da Ya Zhai (studio of greater odes) porcelain is often associated with the Emperess Dowager Cixi, who assumed regency during the reigns of the young Tongzhi (1862-74) and Guangxu (1875-1908) Emperors. It is believed that the porcelain designs are based on her paintings, produced for the restoration of the Yuanming Yuan (Old Summer Palace) towards the end of the 19th century, late Qing dynasty