Soup tureen, ribbed throughout the body and also on the lid. The lid is given prominence by the presence of an additional form of multiple ribbing, horizontally orientated. The decoration features the open peony motif, of clear Chinese inspiration and reflecting the "famille rose" theme.

This pattern was used from the most primitive period of the Manufactory onwards, and was later very successfully replicated in the second period, when it was identified - mistakenly - with the so-called "tulip" decoration. In the Manufactory's 1957 records, this decoration, listed as nr. 3, was defined as ""fiori di vari colori alla chinese"[flowers of various colors in the Chinese manner] (Ginori Lisci Archives, File 37, nr.6; see also Biancalana A., 1998, p. 29). The tureen has a gray-paste body and lead-glazing, typical of the first period.

The rich decoration covers almost the entire exterior surface of the tureen; the two handles, representing intertwined strands and enriched by a gilt central button that draws the strands together, are enhanced with touches of purple. Beneath the handles two small sprigs can be seen, highlighted in gold, with colors similar to those displayed in the main decoration. The finial on the lid is in the shape of a stylised flower and is likewise touched with gold.

The dinner service of which this tureen formed part was one belonging to the Guinigi family; the pieces were dispersed in the 1960s through auction sales. The soup tureen was published together with part of the service in the Auction Catalogue listing the possessions of the heirs of the Guinigi family. [GT]