Plate - Porcelain

Central decor: The plate features a central medallion adorned with a large floral basket from which rich branches of fully bloomed peonies and other stylized floral stems emerge. The basket is finely drawn with geometric patterns imitating wickerwork.

Border with Chilong: A wide band on the rim of the plate is devoted to a very dynamic continuous decoration. Four archaic dragons (Chilong) with sinuous bodies are seen, weaving and intertwining skillfully amid leafy and floral scrolls.

Finish: The decoration is executed in an underglaze blue monochrome, characteristic of these prestige productions. The border trim in silvered metal highlights the rim of the plate.

Although made in China, this piece was produced specifically for the export market of the Vietnamese elite and royal court (under the Nguyễn dynasty in the 19th century). This is historically known as Hué Blue porcelain. The literati and members of the Annamese court (the former Vietnam) greatly appreciated these Buddhist and Taoist symbolic marks on the back of their fine tableware, as they were synonymous with high culture and spiritual protection.

A star-shaped crack on the belly.