An especially fine pair of Chinese export porcelain Palaceware-patterned soup plates each with painstakingly hand-painted gilt lattice borders with reserves of sepia landscapes surrounding central scenes depicting calligrapher Wang Xizhi on his garden terrace seated at his desk receiving the gift of a goose from an admirer of his work. Considered one of China’s ‘Four Greatest Calligraphers’, this 4th century artist was said to have been fond of having geese around him as he based his brushwork and wrist techniques on the movements of birds’ necks, hence the subject of the scene on these plates.  It is remarkable that centuries later, this legend would be used to decorate a very fine quality dinner service intended for the western market where the story would be completely lost on the diners enjoying their meals!  Measuring 9 3/4″ in diameter, the enamels vibrant, the detail remarkable -note the scholars’ objects on his desk – and in very good condition.  Circa 1795-1810.  $2,250.00 each.