Chinese tobacco leaf oval dish, Qianlong (1736-95)

POA

Description

Chinese tobacco leaf oval dish, Qianlong (1736-95), of leaf-shape with lobed rim and pointed tip, decorated in underglaze blue, bright polychrome enamels and gilt highlights with a variation on the classic tobacco leaf pattern, with an assortment of scrolling tropical foliage, hibiscus and passion flowers against a white ground with scattered blossoms and interlocking rings, all within a narrow underglaze blue line to the rim.

Dimensions:

Diameter: 14cm. (5 1/2in.); length: 21cm. (8 1/4in.)

Condition:

Very minor wear to rim and enamels

Notes:

Although this design and related variations are popularly referred to as ‘tobacco leaf’ pattern, the tobacco plant does not necessarily feature – as noted by Howard and Ayers the distinctive serrated leaves may in fact be based on the ‘thick, tropical variegated leaf foliage of Southern Asia and the Pacific’. It has also been suggested that the design was inspired by patterns found on Indian textiles exported in large quantities during the 17th and 18th centuries. The luxurious and intricate pattern proved very popular in Europe, and while Chinese ‘tobacco leaf’ services were exported and bought at great expense, ‘tobacco leaf’ inspired wares made at manufactories including New Hall and Spode could be obtained at a much lower price.

For further information on the ‘tobacco leaf’ pattern and variations see Pierre L. Debomy’s extensive study ‘Feuille de Tabac et Pseudo: Tentative d’Inventaire’, La Société des Amis du Musée national de Céramique Sèvres: France, 2013.

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Product REF: W82