A very beautiful and impressively-sized Chinese export porcelain mazzarene and platter, made for the American market, and bearing the initials CMJ within a central crested scrolled, each piece edged with a rich sepia and gilt grapevine border. The initials stand for Catesby and Mary Jones of Virginia who were married in 1823. Catesby (1790-1858) had a distinguished career in the early United States Navy.  He trained with Isaac Hull and Stephen Decatur in Norfolk, Virginia before going on to service in suppressing the slave trade, smuggling, and piracy.  He also commanded the Pacific Squadron in 1825, 1842 and in 1844 during the Mexican War. Discussed in Schiffer’s China for America, p. 84.   17″ x 14″.  Circa 1820-1825.