Chinese blue and white ribbed plate, early eighteenth century
Chinese blue and white ribbed plate, early eighteenth century
POA
Description
Chinese blue and white ribbed plate, early eighteenth century, of moulded form with gently lobed edge, decorated in underglaze cobalt blue with a fierce dragon, decorated with a fierce dragon chasing the pearl, his front half depicted with body coiled and claws outstretched, amongst wisps of cloud, the pattern continued on the reverse with the back half of the dragon; his haunches and long tail curving around the rim of the plate, with further wisps of cloud.
Dimensions:
Diameter: 15.6cm. (6 1/8in.)
Condition:
Slight rubbing to the rim with small loss of glaze
Notes:
A dish with similar dragon design can be found in the collection of the British Museum (Franks.772.a ). This dragon pattern was popular in Europe, with various ceramics manufacturers in England, including Bow, Worcester, Lowestoft, Liverpool and Liverpool, producing wares inspired by the design from the mid-18th century. The Chinese dragon (‘long’ 龍 or ‘loong’ 龙) has been a prominent mythological creature in Chinese folklore for millennia. While it is commonly believed that the dragon was originally worshipped as part of animistic ritual in China, the mythical beast came to be associated more specifically with control of water, including the sea, rivers and associated weather events such as typhoons. The Dragon was also celebrated as a bringer of good fortune and a symbol of strength; it was adopted as an Imperial icon from at least the Han dynasty onwards.
| item details | |
|---|---|
| Material and Technique | Porcelain with underglaze blue decoration |
| Origin | Chinese |
| Period | 18th Century |
| Condition | Very good |
| Diameter | 15.6cm. (6 1/8in.) |
Product REF: W791
