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American Market Ship Teawares #7786 Cup/saucer, Sold

A fine grouping of Chinese export porcelain teawares made for the American market, each bearing a hand-painted image of a ship under sail bearing a blue ground flag decorated with gilded stars. This flag, first authorized for use in 1777,  was called a ‘Jack Flag’ and was flown to indicate to other ships that a diplomat was onboard. This flag was actually used by United States vessels until the early 20th century; the three pieces here a great bit of early American maritime history. The strap-handled drum teapot with leechee nut knop measuring 6 1/2″ tall x 9 1/2″ wide and with restoration to the spout at the base, otherwise good condition with a fine ship image ($1,550.00).  The tea bowl measuring 3 1/2″ in diameter and with a line to the rim, the saucer measuring 5 1/2″ in diameter with a small rim line sealed  and the sparrow-beak milk jug measuring 4 5/8″ tall and in good condition . Illustrated and discussed in Chinese Export Porcelain in the Reeves Collection at Washington and Lee University, page 212. Circa 1800.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Swedish Armorial Yongzheng Soup Plate #7754c sold

A very fine Chinese export porcelain soup plate made for Swedish market, from a special-order service and bearing the Arms of Klinkostrom.  The central arms within a scrolling gilded cavetto border, the rim with beautiful arching branches of peony – a revered flower in China, this piece combining both European and Chinese design elements exemplifying the worldwide cultural connections of the China Trade, and the superb quality achieved during this period. Measuring 9″ in diameter and in very good condition. Circa 1730.  Ex-Nelson Kline Collection.

 

 

 

 

Yongzheng Period Coffee Cup #7769 sold

As with a lot of fine Yongzheng pieces – there is a lot of detail masterfully painted in a very small space – here is no exception with this charming handled cup painted in Famille Rose enamels with an elegant lady with a fan seated a fine table with what appears to be an unfurled scroll that she has been contemplating, her attention diverted by what we assume to be her small son who is carrying a ruyi scepter, his presence dwarfed by being sandwiched between two large vases, all as a large cat looks bemusedly out at the viewer. What did the rest of the tea set look like one wonders? The cup   2 5/8″ tall and dating to circa 1730, in very good condition. Coming to the Nelson Kline Collection from Marchant of London.

 

 

 

 

Pair of Mandarin 9″ Vases #7778D sold

A very decorative pair of Chinese export porcelain square tapering vases hand-painted in Famille Rose enamels with courtly Mandarin scenes with figures taking their leisure in a garden conversing, playing music, and doing calligraphy. Both with gilded foo lion handles and measuring 9″ tall with restoration to chips along the edges of the shoulders, otherwise good condition.  Circa 1820.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Yongzheng ‘Courting Couple’ Tea Bowl & Saucer #7765

A very elegant Chinese export eggshell porcelain tea bowl and saucer hand-painted in Famille Rose enamels with a charming central scene of a courting couple seated beneath a tree being spied upon by a young boy (which seems to be a popular motif in Chinese art) all within a scrolling gilded peony and grisaille diapered border – the same motif appearing on the delicate little tea bowl as well. Excellent quality and in very good condition. The saucer measuring  4 1/2″, the tea bowl 2 3/4″ in diameter. Circa 1730.

 

 

 

 

LYMAN of Massachusetts #7737 Sold

A charming Chinese export porcelain reticulated plate from a service made for Theodore and Lydia Lyman of Massachusetts, with a central ermine mantle-and-shield decoration bearing their gilded initials TLL, the rim with a hand-cut reticulated border edged with a floral and foliate rose band of decoration. Born in York, Maine, Theodore (1753-1839) moved to Boston and successfully established himself in the shipping business, expanding his business to the Northwest fur trade and on to China, and prospering to enough to retire and commission Samuel McIntyre of Salem to design and build a grand Federal style country seat outside Boston called The Vale.  The house still stands to this day and is an Historic New England Property.  Examples of this service are in the collections of both the Peabody Essex Museum and Historic New England.  Measuring 7 1/2″ in diameter and in very good condition.  Circa 1786. And with many thanks to Ched and Sandy Cluthe for sharing their usual thorough research.  

 

 

 

Grice Breakfast Tea Bowl & Saucer #7760c sold

A really lavishly painted Chinese export porcelain breakfast tea bowl and saucer, dating from the Yongzheng period and richly decorated and detailed in Famille Rose enamels from a special order service bearing The Arms of Grice. The saucer centered with the full armorial shield crest and flourishes including what appears to be black boars all against a very detailed pink diapered ground with additional reserves of peony, prunus, lotus and chrysanthemums denoting the Four Seasons and edged with an intricate gilded scrolling border. The oversized tea bowl continues the same motifs, but centers on the image of the boar crest without the arms. Illustrated and discussed in Howard’s Chinese Armorial Porcelain, Vol. II, page 154. The saucer measuring 6 1/2″ in diameter and with a glaze line to the reverse on the rim.  The tea bowl is 4 3/8″ inches in diameter and with a piece out professionally restored. Remarkable quality decoration. Circa 1730.  Ex-Nelson Kline Collection.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rare Mandarin ‘Borderless’ Plate #7782

An unusual Chinese export porcelain ‘borderless’ Mandarin plate hand-painted with an expansive scene across the entire surface of the plate depicting a pair of elegant courtly ladies on a covered terrace overlooking a water garden of blossoming lotus and watching a young boy in the foreground fishing.  An example of this service is illustrated in Dr. John Feller’s The Canton Famille Rose Enamels, page 5, where he remarks on the unusual use of color with the gilded detail turquoise rock formations and the strong yellow of the terrace blinds. Measuring 9 1/2″ and in good condition, dating to circa 1820.  $975.00

 

 

 

 

RARE Form Mandarin Mustard Pots #7777c SOLD

A very interesting and charmingly decorated pair of Chinese export porcelain covered mustard pots, each taking the form of pots-de-creme of the period with their gilded berry knops and double strap handles, but with each cover notched to accommodate a small mustard spoon.  The hand-painted Famille Rose enameled decoration with figural Mandarin scenes, the covers with elaborate borders of flowers, insects and exotic birds. Measuring 3 1/2″ x 3 1/2″, in great condition with gilded detail. A very rare form. Circa 1820.

Yongzheng English Market Armorial Cup & Saucer #7766c SOLD

A finely painted and thinly potted Chinese export porcelain coffee cup and saucer from the Yongzheng period made for the English market, from a bespoke service bearing the Arms of Hesketh of Lancashire. Decorated with a central lobed roundel with a grisaille vase holding gilded peonies surrounded by four reserves – three with more finely detailed floral decoration en grisaille, the top reserve with the Hesketh arms and crest, all against the most minutely rendered Y-shaped gilded diapering, the handled cup continuing the motifs with quatrefoil reserves with the arms and floral designs against a gilded diapered ground. The 4 1/2″ saucer with minute rim frits and two glaze lines sealed to the reverse, the 2 1/2″ tall cup in good condition, both with very faint wear to the grisaille in places. Illustrated and discussed in Howard’s Chinese Armorial Porcelain, Vol. I, page 257.  A wonderful survivor from circa 1733.  From the Nelson Kline Collection, acquired from Henry Moog of Atlanta.

 

 

 

 

 

Yongzheng Eggshell ‘Cockerel’ Tea Bowl & Saucer #7761c SOLD

A great example of this classic Yongzheng pattern, this Chinese export tea bowl and saucer in finely potted eggshell porcelain is very well painted in Famille Rose enamels with imagery of a cockerel on rockwork amongst flowering peony – the cockerel a symbol of strength and punctuality, the peony the symbol of wealth and nobility. In very good condition, the saucer 4 3/8″ in diameter, the tea bowl 2 1/2″ and with a good provenance from Santos of London and the the Nelson Kline Collection. Circa 1730.

 

 

 

 

 

Yongzheng English Market Armorial Plate #7752c SOLD

A beautiful and somewhat unusual Yongzheng period Chinese export porcelain armorial plate, decorated in Famille Rose enamels made for the English market and bearing the Arms of Gresley quarterly with Bowyer in pretence.  Certainly typical of the Yongzheng period with this quality of porcelain and hand-painting, centered with a finely detailed armorial, the rim with delicately enameled branches of peony and butterflies.  What stands out is the Chinese crenellated wall along the bottom of the plate, its gate swung open and an exotic seven stage pagoda and Chinese roofed building seen beyond the wall. Illustrated and discussed in Howard’s Chinese Armorial Porcelain, Vol. I, page 330 where David Howard discusses the history of this early baronetcy and family, but no suggestion is made as to why this service was ordered with this particular unusual architectural design feature.  Measuring 9″ in diameter and other than a very minute enamel loss to the armorial, in very good condition. Circa 1735. Ex-Nelson Kline Collection.

 

 

 

Rare Form Orange Fitzhugh Reticulated Basket #7771

A highly unusual form, this wonderful Chinese export porcelain reticulated basket is decorated in the Orange Fitzhugh pattern and centered with a central roundel with the monogram M, the basket motif continued onto the base with a molded woven pattern. Obviously from a special order service and the form most likely after English examples of the period.  Other than two small glaze losses to the rim, it is in ‘as found’ condition with a line across the bottom of the piece that does not to appear to have effected any of the reticulation; how this piece survived intact is as unusual as the form itself. Measuring 3″ x 9 1/2″, the only one we’ve had in thirty years. Circa 1820.

 

 

 

 

Early Great Size Kangxi Punch Pot #7744 SOLD

An impressively sized Chinese export porcelain Kangxi period punch pot (or large tea pot) decorated in Famille Verte enamels decorated around the body with floral symbols of the Four Seasons – peony, prunus, lotus, and chrysanthemum, edged with a ruyi border around the shoulder, the motifs continuing on the cover.  Measuring 71/2″ tall by 10″ wide.  Restoration to the base of the spout and the cover, along with small lines around the base of the handle; beautiful, vibrant enamels. Circa 1700.

 

 

 

 

Chinese Export Silver Dragon Teapot #7747 Sold

A truly fine example of China Trade silversmithing, this exquisitely hand-wrought Chinese export silver tea pot is animated with a repousse swirling dragon amongst the clouds motif as well as a floral design on the cover and spout all with chased detail and textured background highlighting the sculptural effect of the imagery.  Measuring 4 1/2″ x 3 3/4″, dating to the mid-19th century, and bearing a Chinese mark, yet to be identified, but obviously the work of a superior craftsman or workshop.  Very slight bend in the cover, otherwise very good condition and quality.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Kangxi Rouleau Form Vase #7745

A strikingly decorated Kangxi period rouleau form vase hand-painted in rich underglaze cobalt blue with a continuous scene of blossoming lotus – the ‘symbol of purity’. The ease and grace of the forms as they move around the vessel attest to the skills of the painter; a classic example in the Chinese taste, Measuring 11″ in height and in good condition with only restoration to the mouth of the vase. Circa 1690.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Superb Yongzheng Ruby Ground Eggshell Tea Bowl & Saucer #7768c Sold

Just one of the finest ruby ground pieces of Yongzheng wares we’ve enjoyed having, this thinly potted and exquisitely decorated tea bowl and saucer bear finely rendered grisaille peony cartouches in reserve against a rich, flawless ruby red ground, both pieces edged with a gilt-diapered and floral border. This would have been part of a very expensive tea set, painstakingly produced as the even, rich ruby ground color was very difficult to fire in the kiln and produce. The saucer measuring 4 1/2″ in diameter, the tea bowl 2 7/8″, and both translucent pieces without any apparent damage or restoration with the exception of a minute flea bite on the edge of the saucer.  From the Nelson Kline Collection. Circa 1730.

 

 

 

Yongzheng Cockerel Covered Jug #7759c Sold

A beautiful example of Chinese export porcelain made during the Yongzheng period, this charming 4 1/2″ covered jug is hand-painted in Famille Rose enamels, centered with a roundel of a cockerel (the symbol of fidelity and punctuality) beneath an arching branch of flowering peony (the symbol of wealth and nobility) and flanked by cartouches featuring peony and chrysanthemum en grisaille against a cellwork ground and diapered border, the motifs continued on to the cover.  There appears to be a short firing line on the arch of the handle at some point in-filled, other than that, excellent condition and elegant quality and with a stellar provenance having come from Santos of London and the Nelson Kline Collection.  Circa 1730.

 

 

 

 

 

VERY RARE FORM KANGXI TEAPOT #7684

A fantastic example of Chinese export porcelain from the Kangxi period, this wonderful ribbed form teapot is hand-decorated with vertical molded panels of floral and foliate decoration, banded at the top and bottom with lotus petals, the decoration continuing on the cover, with the handle and spout molded to resemble bamboo. All part of the ‘exotic’ decoration that fascinated Europeans during this early period of the China trade. Measuring 5″ tall x 6 1/2″ wide, a minute frit to the end of the spout, otherwise very good condition,  Circa 1690.

 

 

 

 

ORANGE FITZHUGH SETON ARMORIAL PLATE & POT DE CREME #7735, 7734 BOTH SOLD

One of the most striking armorial services made in the classic Fitzhugh pattern this beautifully hand-painted 9 3/4″ dinner plate and it’s accompanying 3 1/4″ pot-de-creme are both from a custom ordered service, each centered with the Arms of Seton quartering Hay, one of four services made for this family, this one made for Sir Alexander Seton, fifth baronet, who, along with his three sons, were all involved in the service of the Honourable East India Company. Illustrated and discussed in Howard’s Chinese Armorial Porcelain, vol. II, page 541. Very good condition. Circa 1810.

 

SPOONER FAMILY PAIR OF GREEN FITZHUGH SOUP PLATES #7725

An attractive pair of Chinese export porcelain 10″ soup plates in the Green Fitzhugh pattern, each centered with a gilded letter S, from a service made for the SPOONER family of Plymouth, Massachusetts, most likely Captain Nathaniel Spooner (1758-1826).  The family has a long history in Plymouth and their home still stands as a house museum.  Slight re-touch to the gilded initials, otherwise plates are in good condition.  Early 19th century.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Incredible Condition Pair of Raspberry Fitzhugh 10″ Soup Plates #7714 SOLD

A remarkably fine pair of Chinese export porcelain 10″ soup  plates meticulously hand-painted in the Raspberry Fitzhugh pattern – one of the more sought-after colors in this pattern – each centered with a gilded roundel depicting a bucolic scene with a horse and carriage, the fine, untouched gilded decoration continuing around the cavetto with a meandering vine pattern.  In stunning virtually perfect condition, one of the best examples we’ve ever had. Circa 1810-1820.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Great Courtly Views Mandarin Plates #7723 SOLD

An unusual pair of Chinese export porcelain Mandarin plates, richly hand-painted  in Famille Rose enamels with wonderful courtly views.  In addition to the fantastic snapshots of Mandarin life, what makes these scenes more unusual than most is that the plate is treated as a blank canvas, the scene rendered across the whole surface to the plate, unframed and unconstricted by extraneous borders – not to mention the rich detail and unusual angles of perspective.  Beautiful condition, measuring 8″ in diameter and dating to circa 1800-1810.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Great Decoration – Pair of GRANT Fish Plates #7722 SOLD

A wonderful pair of very colorful, decorative, and amusing plates realistically hand-painted with with all manner of aquatic life; fish, shells, crabs and shrimp. From a service belonging to Frederick Dent Grant, the son of President Ulysses S. Grant. Frederick was born in 1850 and died in 1912. After attending West Point, his early military career saw him serving in the U.S. Cavalry before resigning to accompany his father on a world tour in 1887 during which time they visited China where this service was most likely ordered. In 1889 he was appointed U.S. Minister to Austria-Hungary, and then later he served as Police Commissioner for the City of New York, and at the end of the century he returned to military service in the Spanish American War as a Brigadier General in the Regular Army. Measuring 9 1/2″ in diameter and in very good condition. Circa 1870.

 

 

 

 

 

 

American Eagle Green Fitzhugh Soup Plate #7726 SOLD

A fantastic Chinese export porcelain soup plate in the Green Fitzhugh pattern made for the American Market centered with well-rendered image of a spread eagle taken from the Great Seal of the United States, clutching an olive branch in one talon and a quiver of arrows in the other, with a banner inscribed E Pluribus Unum in its beak, and supporting a shield with the gilded initials AF of the original owner, as yet unidentified, all within a brilliant green Fitzhugh design. Measuring 9 3/4″ in diameter and with two lines to the reverse rim restored, otherwise in good condition and a very fine example of the American eagle.  Circa 1825.

 

 

 

Wonderful American Market Maritime “He is Gone” Trio #7720 SOLD

A rather poignant Chinese export porcelain trio of tea bowl, handled cup, and saucer made for the American market hand-painted with a forlorn maiden leaning upon an anchor (the symbol of Hope) as she watches a ship departing, undoubtedly bearing her love away, an inscription above the scene declaring “He is gone”. The ship bearing two American flags, so undoubtedly made for the American market and a reminder of the great risks that early mariners took to make their fortunes at sea.  Other than a hairline to the saucer sealed, all pieces in good condition. The saucer 5″ in diameter, the tea bowl 3 1/2″ and the cup  3 1/2″ tall.  Circa 1795.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Extremely Fine Hanbery Armorial Soup Plate #7723 SOLD

The best example of this early Yongzheng period service we’ve ever handled, this lovely Chinese export porcelain soup plate, ordered for the English market, bears the bold central Arms of Hanbery with Comyin in Pretence all with an extremely rich and detailed gilded grapevine border. Little expense was spared to create this fine service which is at odds with whom it was made for,  one John Hanbury a wealthy Quaker London tobacconist who held considerable lands in Maryland and Virginia which were worked by enslaved laborers drawing much ire and scorn from his Quaker friends and associates.  Mr. Hanbury is further discussed and an example of this service illustrated in Howard’s Chinese Armorial Porcelain, Vol. I, page 265.  Minor rim chips and a line to the reverse, but the front in virtually pristine condition, the gilding especially fine.  9″ in diameter.  Circa 1730-1735.  Ex- Elinor Gordon collection.

 

 

 

American Market for Baltimore Donnell Soup Plate #7730 sold

An elegant Chinese export porcelain soup plate made for the American market, specifically for John and Ann Donnell of Baltimore, Maryland (married in 1798) who were owners of the prominent Willowbrook Estate in Baltimore.  The design centered with a shield bearing the couple’s gilded initials surrounded by flourishes and flowers, the edge rimmed with a classic peach/sepia and gilt border which appears as a popular motif on American market services of this period.  Measuring 10″ in diameter and in very good condition.  Circa 1810.  A similar example in the collections of the Dietrich American Foundation.

 

 

 

 

American Dutch Market Basket & Undertray & Saucer #7728, #7729

Some very fine examples of Chinese export porcelain made for the American/Dutch market this charming reticulated basket and undertray along with a 6″ dish are all from a service made for the prominent Dutch patroon families of Ten Broeck and Stuyvesant. Each piece edged with a rich raspberry border and centered with a floral and beribboned shield bearing the initials DTB for Dirck Ten Broeck ( 1765-1832) with a C above the monogram for his wife Cornelia Stuyvesant whom he married in 1785.  Both old patrician New York colonial families, illustrated and discussed in New York and The China Trade, page 77 where it tells of Dirck being the only son of General Abraham Ten Broeck and entering the New York State Assembly and becoming Speaker of the House, later relocating to New York City. The basket measuring 7 1/2″ wide, the undertray 8″wide by 3 1/2″ tall; the plate measuring 6″, both in very good condition. Circa 1785.

 

Rare Form Orange Fitzhugh Armorial of Seton Quartering Hay #7733 SOLD

A very beautiful form in strikingly fine condition, this wonderful Chinese export porcelain covered sauce tureen is decorated in the Orange Fitzhugh pattern and bears the arms of Seton quartering Hay.  Remarkably, this one of four services made for this family between 1770 and 1820 and given the family connections to the Honourable East India Company it is easy to see why that family was awash in fine porcelain.  According to Howard’s Chinese Armorial Porcelain, Vol. II, page 541, Sir Alexander Seton, 5th Baronet and his three sons all served in the company.  In addition to the great family history, the piece itself is a desirable bombe form with fine molded grapevine and gilded detail and in superlative condition. Measuring 6″ x 7″.  Circa 1810.

 

 

 

 

 

Orange Fitzhugh Arms of Nesbitt Serving Dish #7736 SOLD

A fine Chinese export porcelain quatrefoil-shaped serving dish very well-painted in the Orange Fitzhugh pattern, the quality of the design made even more attractive being centered with a bold armorial crest and motto of a hand clenching a truncheon and inscribed Je le Maintiendrai.  From a service made for the Nesbitt family of County Westmeath, Ireland.  Illustrated and discussed in Howard’s Chinese Armorial Porcelain, vol. I, page 691. Measuring 8 1/2″ square, combining beautiful quality and superb condition. Circa 1810.

 

 

 

 

Fine Arms of New York Tea Bowl & Saucer #7719

A great example of special order Chinese export porcelain made for the American Market, this fine tea bowl and saucer are hand-painted with the Arms of New York with a shield supported by two maidens, one holding a pole with a Liberty cap, the other featured as Justice blindfolded with her sword and scales, the shield surmounted by an eagle uncaged. This example is specifically discussed and illustrated in Howard’s New York and the China Trade, page 93, along with a number of other versions. This appeared to be a popular design and was made in varying degrees of quality decoration ranging from simple shields with generic floral sprigs to more finely painted versions for bespoke services including family initials and monograms as we have here.  The saucer measuring 5 1/2″ in diameter, the tea bowl 3 1/2″, each rimmed with an overglaze blue and gilt star border, and in very good condition having come from a superb private collection, the owner only acquiring the best examples he could find-these pieces from Elinor Gordon. Circa 1805.  $1,250.00

 

 

 

 

Superb Arms of New York Tea Bowl and Saucer #7718 Sold

One of the best versions of this pattern, this elegant Chinese export porcelain tea bowl and saucer, made for the American Market is hand-painted with the Seal of the Arms of New York and a fine gilded central roundel with the original owners’ monogram above two American shields and surmounted by an uncaged version of an eagle, the roundel’s supporters featuring a maiden holding a staff with the Liberty cap and another in the guise of Justice with her blindfold, sword and scales, all within an overglaze blue border decorated with gilt stars and resting upon a band of very finely hatched gilded diapering.  This pattern was made in varying degrees of detail and quality and these pieces came from one of the best bespoke services we have seen in this pattern – a saucer from this service is  illustrated and discussed in Howard’s New York and the China Trade, page 91 and is dated to circa 1795.  Both pieces of shaped and molded form and in very good condition; from a superb private collection of American market wares, the collector only seeking out the best examples.

 

 

 

Yongzheng Famille Rose Armorial-Crested Teapot #7689c SOLD

A perfect example of a Yongzheng period Chinese export porcelain teapot, finely decorated in Famille Rose enamels in soft shades of pink and blue diapering and cellwork along with with peony and lotus motifs and with two roundels featuring a rather cryptic cypher surmounted by a crown.  A tribute to the Chinese decorator’s talent (and patience!) and surely from a special order tea set intended for a noble personage. Measuring 4 1/2″ x 6 1/4″ and in excellent condition, ex- Nelson Kline Collection.  Circa 1735.

 

 

 

 

American Market Fame & Eagle #7716c Sold

A rare design made for the Chinese export American Market this attractive tea bowl and saucer is hand-painted with images of both the American Eagle taken from an early version of the Great Seal of the United States, along with an image of Fame and her trumpet floating above it. Fame, of course, being best known for her appearance on the much sought-after Order of Cincinnati service ordered for George Washington. Here the elements are successfully used together in these charming pieces boasting of their pride in the new American Republic.  The saucer 5 1/2: in diameter, the tea bowl 3 1/2″.  There appears to be a possible short line to the saucer rim sealed, and a firing imperfection below the eagle on the saucer, otherwise good condition. Circa 1795-1800. From a prominent American Market private collection.

 

 

 

 

 

 

WOLCOTT of Connecticut Saucer #7716c sold

A very attractive Chinese export porcelain saucer decorated with natural marine motifs of sepia shells and seaweed with fine gilt detailing, from a tea service made for Oliver Wolcott, Jr. of Connecticut, the grandson of a colonial governor of Connecticut and the son of a signer of the Declaration of Independence.  He was born in 1760 in Litchfield, Ct, attended Yale and studied law. He was Secretary of the Treasury in Washington’s cabinet after Alexander Hamilton resigned, and continued in the position into the administration of John Adams. He later relocated to New York city and established the trading firm of Oliver Wolcott and Company and started trading with China from 1804 until 1810. That is when he most likely acquired this fine tea service. He then went on to be Director of the Bank  of the United States, and then co-founder of the Bank of America.  He died in 1833, the last surviving member of Washington’s cabinet. The saucer measuring 5″ in diameter, small Y-shaped line to the reverse of the saucer sealed,  and in good condition.  From a prominent American market private collection.

 

 

 

Yongzheng Arms of HAGGARD Tea Bowl & Saucer #7693c SOLD

A very finely potted and decorated Chinese export porcelain armorial tea bowl and saucer, hand-painted in Famille Rose enamels and gilding, centered with a coat of arms bearing a large six-pointed star and surmounted by a knight’s helmet crest, surrounded by gilded flowers within a scrolling foliate border.   It is interesting that it bears the hexagram, the six-pointed star that many of us know as the Star of David from Judaism and is also one of the oldest symbols for God in the Christian religion, but,  we are grateful to Angela Howard who kindly identified the arms of those of HAGGARD and the emblem of the six-pointed star, actually called a ‘mullet’ in heraldry, used on coats of arms in Britain and Europe, and it represented either a in a six or five- pointed form the spur of a knight.  Yongzheng period, circa 1730.  In good condition with only a very slight line to the reverse of the saucer sealed.  The saucer 4 1/2″ in diameter, the tea bowl 2 7 /8″.  Ex-Nelson Kline Collection.

 

 

 

 

Pair of Sweetmeat Dishes #7711 SOLD

A very elegant pair of Chinese export porcelain reticulated sweetmeat dishes of fan-shaped form each hand-painted with a small vignette of flowers, birds, and butterflies within a leaf-shaped reserve against a very finely gilded scrolling foliate ground – the motif continued around the rim edge which borders the sides of hand-cut reticulation.  Almost certainly part of a supper set which would have had other similar components forming an outer ring of these lotus petal shaped dishes around a central circular dish, the suite coming in a fitted box. Part of an extravagant and luxurious set for the circa 1800 dining table. Each measuring 4 1/2″ x  5 1/4″ and other than a very small rim chip and minor glaze imperfections, in very good condition with very fine painting.

 

 

 

 

Superlative Yongzheng Armorial Plate #7698c Sold

An especially fine Chinese export porcelain Yongzheng period armorial plate made for the English market, decorated with a central coat-of arms within an iron red scrolling foliate border, the rim meticulously hand-painted with a soft grisaille floral ground with four reserves of gilded peonies and butterflies, all truly elegant. Bearing the Arms of Braithwaite impaling Tayleur.  Fully illustrated and discussed in Howard’s Chinese Armorial Porcelain, Vol. II, page 193.  The Yorkshire family has quite an interesting history with colonial connections to both South Africa and the Coromandel Coast.  This plate is the one actually illustrated in Howard’s book, ex-Nelson Kline Collection.  Measuring 9″ in diameter and in good condition. Circa 1733.

 

 

 

Spectacular Armorial Yongzheng Saucer # 7701c Sold

An amazingly detailed armorial decoration on this fine Chinese export porcelain saucer from this Yongzheng period.  Finely potted and enameled in the Famille Rose palette, the top half of the saucer is centered with a lavish, baroque Arms of Goodwin of Devon and Suffolk and the lower half very well painted with a typical Chinese design of cockerels amongst peony blossoms all within and rockwork, surrounded by cellwork and diapered cavetto and border.  What a mind-boggling amount of talent and time was lavished on this one fine saucer, the tea set must have been beautiful and impressive, as was its intention at the time.  Measuring 4 1/2″ in  diameter and with only a small rim flake  to the reverse edge filled, otherwise very food condition. Illustrated and discussed in Howard’s Chinese Armorial Porcelain, Vol. I, page 231 and from the Nelson Kline Collection.  Circa 1730.

 

 

 

‘Declaration of Independence’ Saucer and Beaker Cup #7709 Sold

A very interesting commemorative Chinese export porcelain saucer and beaker cup (or large tea bowl) made for the American market, each piece hand-painted with a scene of the authors of the Declaration of Independence presenting their document to John Hancock over which hovers a rather large American eagle, taken from the Great Seal of the United States, holding a banner in its beak inscribed The Declaration of Independence  as well as a small oval beneath the bird reading 1776. The scene on the saucer encircled with a floral sprig and star border, which does not appear on the cup. These wares were most likely produced to commemorate our nation’s centennial in 1876. The image is from one of four large paintings commissioned by John Trumbell to decorate the Capitol rotunda, the images so popular that Currier & Ives reproduced them in print form.  The print was most likely the source from which Chinese decorators worked to create these designs. Illustrated and discussed in Schiffer’s China for America, pages 144-145.  Both pieces in very good condition, the saucer measuring 5 3/4″ in diameter, the beaker cup 2 1/2″ tall x 3 1/2″.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Yongzheng Famille Rose Tea Pot Stand #7692c Sold

An especially fine Chinese export porcelain octagonal form tea pot stand meticulously hand-painted in Famille Rose enamels centered with a roundel of peony blossoms surrounded by lotus petal panels of amazingly rendered cellwork in alternating pastel colors all within a scrolling peony border with a gilded ground. The enamels are jewel-like and the attention to detail is even carried over to the reverse where the flared scalloped rim is glazed with a rich raspberry red.  One can only imagine how striking an entire tea service would have been.  Measuring 5″ across and in excellent condition.  Yongzheng period, circa 1730.  Ex- Nelson Kline Collection.

 

 

 

Yongzheng Landscape Tea Bowl & Saucer #7694 Sold

A very finely rendered Chinese porcelain tea bowl and saucer, hand-painted in underglaze blue with a Chinese landscape scene including a walled village amongst a continuous landscape including all the classic elements of water, rockwork, and trees all done in superb detail.  The saucer measuring 4 3/4″ in diameter, the tea bowl 2 7/8″ and in good condition with only three very minute rim lines to the reverse of the saucer sealed.  Late Kangxi/ Yongzheng, early 18th century.  From the Chinese Porcelain Company and the Collection of Nelson Kline.

 

 

 

 

Impressive PAIR of 20″ Mandarin Platters #7710 Sold

A very dramatic pair of Chinese export porcelain platters, hand-painted in Famille Rose enamels with large central Mandarin scenes of courtly figures in expansive landscapes surrounded with a colorful border of fruits, flowers, and butterflies against a rich gilded ground.  Barely fitting into our photo cube, each measuring 17″ x 20″ and certainly treasured over the past two centuries exhibiting minimal wear and in very good condition.  Once part of a rather extensive and luxurious dinner service, circa 1810-1820.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Early Qianlong Scholar’s Water Dropper #7696c SOLD

A very intriguing Chinese porcelain scholar’s water dropper in the form of a man in front of rockwork holding a peach seated besides swirling water with spotted horse lunging out of the waves. Decorated in Famille Rose enamels, this piece would have formed part of the fittings of a scholar’s studio, a water dropper being necessary to dilute the powdered ink for his calligraphy.  As for the subject, all we can say is there is nothing done in Chinese art that doesn’t bear some symbolic meaning, and this piece has so far eluded us. But the legend, or myth, or symbolism would surely have been known to the person using the piece along with imparting some message or well wishes. Measuring 3″ x 4 1/2″ and in good condition and with a good provenance suggested by the stickers on the reverse.(hands with restoration)  Early Qianlong, circa 1740-1750.

 

Qianlong Dutch Royal Armorial Tea Bowl & Saucer #7691c SOLD

A wonderful Chinese export porcelain early Qianlong period tea bowl and saucer with a Dutch royal connection, richly decorated in Famille Rose enamels and centered with the Arms of the Prince of Orange depicted as two lions flanking the royal arms beneath a rather grand crown crest all within a wonderful rococo floral swagged border with cornucopia and two more crowns (just to get the point across!) The tea bowl measuring 3″ in diameter and the saucer 4″ in diameter.  The saucer with two lines sealed and two very small rim pieces out, also invisibly restored, otherwise good condition with a bright and colorful rococo decoration. Early Qianlong period, circa 1745. From the Chinese Porcelain Company and the Nelson Kline Collection.

 

 

Yongzheng Armorial Tea Bowl #7702c SOLD

A very fine Chinese export porcelain Yongzheng period teabowl beautifully hand-painted with a very elaborate family armorial within a scalloped roundel and on the reverse the family crest within a similar roundel both in reserve against a meticulously rendered grisaille cellwork ground with gilded peony blossoms. Measuring 3″ in diameter and in very good condition. Circa 1730-1735.

 

 

 

Yongzheng Armorial Tea Bowl & Saucer #7690c SOLD

The quality of the Yongzheng period never ceases to amaze with this fine Chinese export porcelain armorial tea bowl and saucer, both pieces with a central roundel against a finely rendered grisaille cellwork ground containing an unusual armorial with a helmet crest above a simple gilt and orange circle containing three X’s and a crescent moon. The arms surrounded by four leaf-shaped reserves – two of gilded peony blossoms, the other two of chrysanthemum and  prunus, most likely painted in silver, now tarnished.  The arms as yet unidentified, but surely from a bespoke tea service made for a noble family.  The saucer, 4 1/2″ in diameter, with s very short line to the reverse, otherwise in good condition, the tea bowl 2 7/8″ in diameter.  Circa 1730. Ex- Nelson Kline Collection.

 

 

 

 

Yongzheng Famille Rose Saucer #7700c $650.

A beautiful, finely potted Chinese export porcelain Yongzheng period saucer, decorated in Famille Rose enamels and gilding with two scrolling foliate borders surrounding a finely rendered image of a vase of flowers. Minor rim frits filled otherwise fine condition, a lovely elegant piece, measuring 4″ in diameter and dating to circa 1730-1735. Ex-Nelson Kline Collection.  $650.00

 

 

 

Rare Size Qianlong Miniature Vase #7695 SOLD

A charming and rare Chinese export porcelain miniature square-tapering covered vase, mounted on a stand, each side finely decorated with a different vignette of exotic birds and flowers in reserve against a subtle bianco sopra-bianco floral ground.  Measuring 4 3/4″ tall and in good condition.  Qianlong period, third quarter of the 18th century.  Ex-Nelson Kline Collection.