A Chinese blue and white sleeve vase depicting the legendary Zhang Xian, Transitional period -- H.: 46,5 cm Zhang Xian is known as the protector of young children as well as the bringer of sons. On this vase, Zhang Xian is holding a bow and is surrounded by boys in a rocky landscape. One boy is carrying a halbert, the second a lotus and the third is holding a basket. A four character inscription reads 'xuan hu jia zhao' what can be translated as 'beautiful omen of the birth of a son'.Xuan hu literally means hanging a bow, which was a common practice when a son was born.Â