The “Zun of Peace” is a bronze vessel used in ancient China and today. Designed in the cloisonné technique of metalwork with enamel, glass and gemstones, there are symbols that provide messages for us to understand. The vessel itself shows respect as they are used to mark and record major events. The “Chinese red” glaze shows goodwill towards the UN and represents happiness, warmth, and hope. The surface designs symbolize solidarity and artists drew inspiration from traditional Chinese artistic culture to express peaceful developments, positive cooperation and efforts for a better world. This cloisonné artwork combines this cultural heritage skill with a pursuit for mutual learning and common progress. Intricate decorations are dragons for peace, elephants and a phoenix for well-being for all peoples and the seven doves mark the 70th anniversary for the founding of the United Nations.

The “Zun of Peace” was given by China to the United Nations, as presented by President of the People's Republic of China Xi Jinping, to Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon. President Xi visited the UN Headquarters in New York and attended the summit marking the 70th anniversary of the Organization.  
 
President Xi said “Zun” means reverence in Chinese and the “gift represents China’s high regard and support for the United Nations and the best wishes of the over 1.3 billion Chinese people to the Organization.” 
 
Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon said the gift “embodies the close relations and shared values of China and the United Nations” and “will now have its home here at UN Headquarters, to be seen and admired by all the delegates and staff and visitors alike.”