Plate (3) - Porcelain

Export porcelain plates, executed in the fashionable Chinese Imari style from the early 18th century (Qing dynasty). The plates are masterfully hand-painted and display an asymmetrical, elegant decoration that is strongly inspired by the Japanese Kakiemon style. Centrally on each plate is a detailed depiction of a bird perched on a graceful, blooming prunus- or cherry blossom branch. The central design is placed within a finely drawn frame in the shape of an unfolded handscroll. The edges are richly decorated with traditional floral motifs and continuous geometric patterns in deep underglaze cobalt blue, vivid iron red and refined gold accents. Characteristic of this early export period is the finer quality of the whiter, thin-walled Chinese porcelain compared with its Japanese counterparts. A splendid ensemble for the serious collector of Asian art and antique porcelain.