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Unusually Large 18th Century Mandarin Tea Canister #7773c

An impressively sized and richly decorated Chinese export porcelain covered tea canister, or jar, of unusual diamond-shaped form, hand-painted with four panels of Mandarin figural scenes of families at leisurely pursuits in their gardens, the concaved neck with vignettes of birds amongst branches in reserve against a finely detailed iron red diapered ground, the motif continued on to the cover, all surmounted by a foo lion finial.  Measuring an impressive 16 1/2″ tall x 9″ wide and of an unusual diamond-shaped form which gives the piece a substantial presence and allows for two scenes to be viewed at once.  With some minor restoration along the edge of the corner of the cover and the corner of the mouth of the vase and a faint interior line, otherwise very good condition. Qianlong period, circa 1770-1780. A rare form.   $4,500.00

 

 

RARE Form Mandarin Mustard Pots #7777c ONE 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.  Priced individually at $775.00 each.

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.

Yongzheng Dutch Armorial Plate # 7755c SOLD

A Chinese export porcelain Yongzheng period 9″ plate, decorated in Famille Rose enamels and centered with the Arms of Van Den Bergh, the central coat-of-arms featuring a shield with three coursing hounds, surrounded by a profusion of scrolling foliate flourishes, the border with delicate flowering branches of peony and chrysanthemum.  Hendrik van den Bergh was born in Haarlem in 1691 and in the 1720s and 1730s made four trips to the Orient as a V.O.C. ship’s captain out of Amsterdam, most likely when this service was ordered. Illustrated and discussed in Kroe’s Chinese Armorial Porcelain for the Dutch Market, page 177.  Re-touch to the central armorial enamels, otherwise, good condition. Circa 1730-1735.

 

Beautiful Large 16″ Rockefeller Platter #7746

A wonderful large Chinese export porcelain ‘Rockefeller Pattern’ oval platter displaying all the richness and attention to detail for which these wares are known, featuring a very finely hand-painted scene – as good a quality as any screen, or scroll painting – featuring a family boating party having pulled their craft ashore and enjoying a picnic beneath a tree. A wonderful view of family life two centuries ago, all set within a puce diapered border with with bird and iron red landscape vignettes and the rim border with further landscapes in reserve against a rich and elaborately scrolling gilded border. The attention to detail and the many specialized skills it took to create this variety of decoration was why this was one of the most expensive special order services available at the time. Evidence of some restoration to the upper left rim on the reverse, other than that good condition.  Measuring 16″ x 13 1/2″ and dating to circa 1795.  $8,500.00

 

Rare Form Orange Fitzhugh Reticulated Basket #7771 Sold

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.

 

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.

 

 

VERY RARE FORM KANGXI TEAPOT #7684 SOLD

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.

 

Elegant Trio of Famille Rose Garniture Vases #7742

A charming set of three Chinese export porcelain 7 1/2″ tall garniture vases hand-painted in underglaze blue and overglaze Famille Rose enamels with baskets of flowers within floral bordered medallions. Reflecting the refinement of the 18th century, dating to circa 1770-1780 and in good condition, other than possible frits filled along the mouth of each vase. Bright, cheerful enamels.  $350.00 each.

 

 

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.  $375.00 each.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pair of Tobacco Leaf Plates #7737

A great pair of Chinese export porcelain scalloped edge plates hand-painted in Famille Rose enamels in the classic Tobacco Leaf pattern, each with a lavish profusion of flowers and foliage and gilded highlights.  Measuring 9″ in diameter both with some slight stacking wear; one with a faint glaze line to the rim on the reverse, the one with two short faint hairlines to the rim on the reverse, otherwise good condition. Circa 1760-1770.

 

American Market Rose Medallion Plate #7727

A fine example of Chinese export porcelain made for the American market in the later 19th century, hand-painted in the Rose Medallion pattern with alternating floral and figural vignettes against a densely packed floral ground, centered a reserve bearing the gilded Gothic initial A most likely for DANIEL AMMEN (1820-1898) an American naval officer whose life-long career, postings, and accomplishments would fill this page. (See Wikipedia).  Measuring 9 3/4″ in diameter and in very good condition. Circa 1865-1868.

 

American Market Rose Medallion BAILEY Plate #7715

A Chinese export porcelain 9 3/4″ Rose Medallion dinner plate hand-painted with a central roundel with a gilded initial B surrounded by four vignettes of courtly scenes and birds amongst flowering branches, all in reserve against a densely painted floral and foliate ground with butterflies and gilded rim. The central initial B within a shield is for the prominent Bailey family of Newport and New York. The patriarch of the family was one William Bailey who was one of the first settlers of Newport, Rhode Island is in known to have dies sometime before 1670.  Bailey’s Beach in Newport remains to this day, named for this family. With some minor stacking wear, otherwise in good condition. Circa 1860-1862.

 

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.

 

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

 

Yongzheng Famille Rose Tea Bowls and Saucers #7712

A very fine pair of Chinese export porcelain Yongzheng tea bowls and saucers, richly hand-painted in Famille Rose enamels, sitting ‘proud’ on the surface of these thinly potted pieces, each with a central peony roundel (symbol of  wealth and nobility) against a pink cellwork ground accented by a yellow and green border.  Painstaking work and talent were needed to pot, paint and fire these small jewels.  The saucers measuring 4 1/2″ in diameter, the tea bowls 2 1/2″, their size indicative of the extravagant cost of tea at the time. In remarkably good condition with only the smallest of rim nibbles to edges and foot. Circa 1725-1735. Ex-Nelson Kline Collection.

 

American Market MORGAN Plate

A nice example of this well-known American Market service, this Chinese export porcelain 7 1/2″ plate is from one of two services made for two brothers of the Morgan family of Hartford, Connecticut – this one was made for the John Morgan service, as it simply is inscribed Morgan, the other service bears his brother’s full name John Morgan.  Of special interest as well is the fact that these services were ordered by their nephew, who was the ship’s carpenter on the Empress of China, the first American ship out of New England to trade directly with Canton.  Sadly, the carpenter died during the voyage and was never able to personally present the services to his uncles.  Illustrated and discussed in Schiffer’s China for America, pages 48 and 49.  Very good condition, circa 1784.

 

Impressive PAIR of 20″ Mandarin Platters #7710

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.  $9,500.00/pair.

 

 

 

 

Yongzheng Dutch Armorial Plate #7672c

A truly elegant Chinese export porcelain Yongzheng period plate made for the Dutch market, richly hand-painted in Famille Rose enamels, centered with a large central gilded shield bearing a fleur-de-lys and surmounted by knight’s helmet crest within flamboyant foliate surround, the cavetto diapered in pink with reserves of flowering branches, the floral motif continued around the rim with rich peony decoration and centered at the top with a crown and stag’s horn crest.  Bearing the Arms of Swellengrebel, almost certainly from a service made for Sergius Swellengrebel  (1694-1760) a Governor for the Dutch East India Company in the Cape Colony of South Africa. The history of the governing of the Dutch VOC colonies and outposts is discussed in detail in Kroes’ Chinese Armorial Porcelain for the Dutch Market, and this service in particular is illustrated and described on page 178 where the author points out design influences from similar English bespoke services of the period. Measuring 9″ in diameter with only a very small rim chip of two pieces out and restored, otherwise a beautiful plate in good condition.  Circa 1730-1735.

 

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

 

Early Qianlong Armorial Tea Caddy #7669c $1275.

A fine little Chinese export porcelain tea caddy of shaped form, decorated in Famille Rose enamels and gilding, from a bespoke service made for the English market and bearing the Arms of Amyatt, a family living near Southhampton.  Illustrated and discussed in Howard’s Chinese Armorial Porcelain, vol I, page 556. Measuring 5″ tall and in good condition with only minor restoration around the shoulder and neck of the piece. Circa 1750. A great form.

Very Impressive Kangxi Famille Verte Garniture Set #7666

A truly spectacular Kangxi period Chinese export porcelain five piece garniture set of molded form and decorated in Famille Verte enamels.  The covered vases measuring 13 3/4″ tall and the flared rim vases 12″ tall, all hand-painted with a profusion of flowering branches of peony, prunus, and chrysanthemum amongst insects and rockwork.  The covered vases with restoration to finials and edges of the covers as well as one with a line running from the neck into the shoulder; the flared rim vases in remarkably good condition.  Considering the prominent and precarious places these prized objects were usually displayed the complete set together is in remarkably overall good condition. A beautiful suite of objects to display. Circa 1700-1710.

 

European Subject Baptism of Christ Plate #7682

A great example of Chinese export made for the European market, this 8 1/2″ plate is hand-painted in iron red with gilded detail with a central scene of the Baptism of Christ within a abundant fruit border meant to signify plenty interspersed with some rather Chinese-looking cherubs, two bearing a banner inscribed Mat 3:16 referring to the Biblical verse being illustrated.  Most likely taken from an engraving of the period, in very good condition and dating to circa 1725. Illustrated and discussed in Howard and Ayers’ China for the West, page 316 where they speculate that these wares were possibly made for for use in China and Japan as a starting point for conversion and incidentally exported to Europe as either a curiosity or an example of the missionary work being done there.

 

Pair of Qianlong Spaniels #7673

An especially happy pair of Chinese export porcelain figures of Spaniels, rather well modeled and finely painted in a seated position. Measuring 6 1/2″ tall and in good condition with only one tail restored.  Later 18th century. Two charming personalities to have in your collection.  $7,200.00.

Rare American Market MANIGAULT Plates #7627 sold

A fine pair of Chinese export porcelain plates decorated in the Sepia Fitzhugh pattern and with an American/ Southern connection.  From a service made for Gabriel Henry Manigault (1789-1834) of South Carolina. Each plate centered with a monogrammed roundel with Latin inscription and surmounted by a Native American crest.  The motto translated means “It is better to anticipate rather than avenge”.  The service is one of two ordered by Henry’s brother Charles Izard Manigault who was in the Far East between 1817 and 1823. Illustrated and discussed in Schiffer’s China for America, pages 56 and 61.  Some restoration.  Circa 1820.

 

Pair of Famille Rose Wall Figures #7654

A very charming pair of Chinese export porcelain figures of a man and a woman reclining with their heads resting in their hands, designed to be hung on a wall, their forms complimenting each other perfectly.  We have not seen this form before, perhaps a gift to a couple, a symbol of connubial harmony? Approximately 8″ long, dating to the 19th century?

Yongzheng Period Dutch Armorial #7649

An especially fine example of Chinese export porcelain made for the Dutch market, this Yongzheng period plate exemplifies the quality produced during this short period. From it’s finely detailed overglaze enamel and gilded coat-of-arms to the meticulously painted underglaze blue cavetto and border floral designs, this plate would have been part of an extensive service with each piece decorated with the same exacting quality. The family arms are those of De Jonge and the service was ordered by one Cornelis de Jonge (1687-1743) who worked his way up the Dutch East India bureaucracy to become senior merchant and first administrator of Bengal, eventually Director of Bengal for the VOC. Measuring 9″ in diameter and in very good condition.  Circa 1735.

 

American Eagle Tea Bowl and Saucer #7470c

A good example of Chinese export porcelain made for the American market, this tea bowl and saucer are simply decorated in the Federal taste  of our new republic – “plain and neat” –  each piece centered with a sepia eagle bearing a red striped shield beneath a star-studded halo, the design taken from an early version of the Great Seal of the United States.  In good condition with only some minor enamel and gilding wear, the saucer measuring 5 1/2″ in diameter, the tea bowl 3 1/2″.  Circa 1800.  $650.00

Impressive CATESBY JONES Mazzarene and Platter #7633

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.

 

CHEW Family of Philadelphia Pots-de-Cremes #7443

Three charming Chinese export porcelain pots-de-cremes from a service ordered by Benjamin Chew of Philadelphia for use by his family at their country estate Cliveden which still stands today, each piece decorated with a gilded C within a starburst roundel.  Benjamin Chew (1722-1810) trained as a lawyer in London before returning to Philadelphia around 1736 where he embarked upon a long and prosperous career holding various posts before and during the American revolution including Chief Justice of the Pennsylvania Supreme Court. Discussed and illustrated in Philadelphians and the China Trade, pages 44-52.  One cup with a line from the rim, the other two cups in good condition, the covers with restorations. Late 18th century.  $425.00 each.

 

Qianlong Lotus Pad Water Dish #7620

Of unusual form, this finely modeled Chinese porcelain water dish/dropper is made in the form of a lotus pad and whimsically includes within its curled leaves a small duck and lotus blossom, the lotus pad itself brilliantly enameled and detailed – especially the modeling of the reverse side.  Part of the writing accoutrements that made up part of a scholar’s studio,  the water holder or dropper was essential to the making of ink and was sometimes made in whimsical or thought-provoking forms such as these. In this instance a duck combined with the lotus denotes a wish for happiness – perhaps the dish was a gift to a scholar upon his graduation from his exams?  Measuring 2″ x 6 1/4″ and in good condition with the exception of a small retouch to the head and beak of the duck.  Late Qianlong period, last quarter of the 18th century.

 

Chinese Export Mandarin Platter #7622

A fine Chinese export porcelain oval platter, decorated in vibrant Famille Rose enamels, painted with a central scene of courtly Mandarin ladies upon a garden terrace being watched with great interest by a gentleman in a pavilion window.  The scene within a gilded and orange enamel border of dragons which symbolize strength, power, and good luck for people who are worthy of it, amongst swirling clouds and flaming pearls.  Good condition, measuring 11 1/2″ x 14 1/2″. Circa 1810-1820.  $1,850.00

Impressive 20″ Kangxi Charger #7624

A great Chinese export porcelain Kangxi charger measuring an impressive 20″ in diameter, decorated in underglaze blue centered with a scene of two courtly ladies – sometimes referred to as ‘Long Elizas’ – on a garden terrace within a wide border of alternating panels featuring the same ‘Long Eliza’ imagery and vignettes of prunus and bamboo, all within a shaped edge.  With three hairlines sealed, but otherwise in good condition and making a very dramatic statement indeed.  Kangxi period, circa 1690.  $5,200.00

Qianlong Landscape Plate #7614

A very finely hand-painted Chinese export porcelain 9″ dinner plate, decorated in Famille Rose enamels in the Chinese taste with a central richly detailed landscape within a foliate gilded cavetto and an elegant scrollwork rim border.  Good condition with only slight wear to the gilded border and faint hairline to the rim. Qianlong period, mid-18th century.

 

Fine Pair of Mandarin Hot Water Dishes #7488

A wonderful pair of Chinese export porcelain hot water dishes decorated in Famille Rose enamels with Mandarin decoration, each centered with a detailed scene of courtly Mandarin life within a fantastical rim bordered with swirling dragons chasing the flaming pearl, the top of the plates with a reserve inscribed with the gilded initials of the original owner of the service. In an era that produced some really brilliant designs, this is one of the best examples of the Mandarin services that we’ve had.  Measuring 9 3/4″ in diameter; one with a chip to the reverse, and both with very minor wear commensurate with age.  Circa 1800.  $2,800.00 the pair.

 

New York State Arms Tea Bowl and Saucer #7551

A Chinese export porcelain tea bowl and saucer made for the American market, specifically for the New York market as it from a service bearing the Arms of the State of New York.  Patriotically-themed services such as this were ordered in the early years of the Republic as a show of pride and loyalty to either specific states or our fledgling nation.  The saucer measuring 5 1/2″ in diameter and with three hairlines; the tea bowl 3 1/2″ in diameter and in good condition with only some enamel wear.  Circa 1790-1800. $375.00

 

Pair of Kangxi Period Doucai Plates #7576

A lovely pair of Chinese export porcelain 8 3/4″ plates decorated in the Doucai style, a technique originating in the Ming Dynasty and later revived during the Qing Dynasty.  Roughly translated it means “Fitted Colors” and it describes the technique of basically creating outlines of the design in underglaze blue, firing the piece, and then filling or “fitting in” the rest of the colors of the image in overglaze enamels, requiring a second firing.  In this pair we have an elegantly rendered central scene of bamboo entwined with flowers with the floral motif of flowering branches continuing around the rim. One with a small flake to the reverse, the other with a very small frit to the rim, otherwise very good condition. Kangxi period, late 17th/ early 18th century.  $3,200.00 the pair.

 

Yongzheng Famille Rose Teapot #7567

A charming Chinese export porcelain Yongzheng period lotus petal-molded teapot decorated with Famille Rose enamels, meticulous gilded diapering and grisaille floral decoration. Very good condition, measuring 4 1/2″ x 6″ and dating to circa 1730-1735. $2,500.00.

American Market Ridgway Eagle-Decorated Plates #7549 Sold

A very handsome pair of Chinese export porcelain barbed rim 8″ plates with a central American eagle decoration based upon an early version of the Great Seal of the United States, all within a striking sawtooth border. Part of a rather impressive 416-piece service made for wealthy businessman John Jacob Ridgway of Philadelphia (1768-1843) who was American Consul to Antwerp, Belgium in the first years of the 19th century.  The service was most likely made for that diplomatic sojourn. Very good condition, circa 1800.  $1,450.00 each.

Pair of Gilt Edged Eagle Plates #7551

A handsome pair of Chinese export porcelain 8″ plates made for the American market, each centered with a early version of the American eagle taken from the Great Seal of the United States, this version shown supporting a floral shield, within a broad gilt border. Very good condition with only very slight wear to the enamel. Circa 1800-1810. Priced individually

 

American Market Tablewares, Nantucket Provenance

A group of fine Chinese export porcelain tablewares made for the American market, vibrantly edged in a beautiful apple green border with gilded detail – each piece with a small gilded floral sprig. In addition to their decorative quality, they have a history of descent in the Russell-Macy-Starbuck families of Nantucket. The simple design would have appealed to the Quaker aesthetic of these prominent island families at the time and the apple green enamel border was relatively rare on Chinese export wares as we know of only one other service made for the American market and that went into New haven, CT.  The group comprises; a large 15″ oval platter; an 11″ reticulated basket and undertray and a pair of covered strap-handled pots-de-cremes. All in very good condition with only the basket handles with restoration and they appear to be original. Early 19th century. $2,800.00 the group.

 

Pair of Hand-Painted Chinese Wallpaper Panels #7513

A charming pair of Chinese export wallpaper panels hand-painted with detailed scenes of daily life – one depicting what appears to be a family woodland outing, the other showing two scholars at a table in a garden with attendants carrying in all manner of exotic potted plants – the ubiquitous “ladies in a window” looking on.  Each panel restored at some point in their history and mounted upon a canvas backing and stretcher.  Needless to say wear and small restorations and re-touches commensurate with the age of the pieces, but wonderful detail, as captivating as they were over two centuries ago when they were painted. 51″ x 46″. Late 18th/early 19th century.        $2,500.00 each.

 

 

12 1/2″ Early Qianlong Famille Rose Charger #7511

A really fine Chinese export porcelain 12 1/2″ charger, decorated in Famille Rose enamels with a beautifully rendered scene from the Chinese epic story The Romance of the Western Chamber. This image is one of the better known scenes where the hero is scaling a garden wall to join his faithful lady whose love he has been denied by a disapproving father. The condition of this piece is superb, the vibrant enamels sitting proud of the surface, and even the gilded detail is still intact.  Note the detail of the wonderful tree root writing table next to the patient lady.  Circa 1740. $2,500.00 net price.