Pillow with Phoenix and Peony Blossom, 11th - 12th century, Northern Song (960-1127) to Jin Dynasty (1115-1234). Porcelain with underglaze slip decoration (Ding ware), 14.2 × 24 × 17 cm. Gift of Mrs. Carroll S. Tyson, 1957, Philadelphia Museum of Art, 1957-26-3.

This two-tone Ding pillow was created by carving away a light brown slip layer to reveal the white slip underneath. The design of a long-tailed, phoenix-type bird amid peony blossoms conveys wishes for wealth, rank, and good fortune.