Qianlong Period Chinese Export Porcelain Tea Cup & Saucer - Lotus Underglaze

Description

Chinese, circa 1785.

Chinese export porcelain cup and saucer set produced with blue and white underglaze foliate motifs and geometric … more Chinese, circa 1785.

Chinese export porcelain cup and saucer set produced with blue and white underglaze foliate motifs and geometric designs to edges. The main face of the cup and saucer have polychrome enamel painted flowers and fine quality. This set has a highly unusual raised "lotus"
underglaze surrounding the main floral decoration. Underside is unmarked as appropriate with age.

Produced in the 18th century, Chinese export porcelain was crafted with the same technical virtuosity as Chinese Imperial porcelain but designed to Western taste. Its continued appeal is testament to the incredible interaction of Chinese artisans and Western importers who, without common language or culture and separated by vast oceans, together promoted the spread of these wares.

From the estate of an important NYC collection. less