Lute-shaped vase engraved with the Four Spirits, each symbolizing one of the four elements of nature: fire, water, earth, and wind.

The Tỳ Bà (lute) vase showcases the Four Spirits, holy benevolent beasts symbolizing the four elements of nature: fire, water, earth, and wind. The Four Spirits – Dragon (Long), Kirin (Ly), Turtle (Quy), and Phoenix (Phuong) – are the four benevolent beasts that, in Eastern cultures, represent the four elements of nature. Their symbolical creatures are engraved on a large ceramic vase shaped like a lute and covered in stone glaze.