Zhangzhou-ovens (minyao) in Fujian, China - Saucer - Porcelain

Chinese Zhangzhou (Swatow) blue-and-white export dish – late Ming dynasty (ca. 1580–1640) - Ø 27 cm

This fine Chinese blue-and-white export dish is a characteristic example of the so-called Zhangzhou porcelain, traditionally known as Swatow ware, produced in Fujian province during the late Ming dynasty, around 1580–1640.

For a long time it was believed that this type of porcelain originated from Swatow (the present-day Shantou), the port from which many of these goods were shipped. Archaeological research has, however, shown that production actually took place in several kilns around Zhangzhou, in the south of Fujian province. Today the international term Zhangzhou ware is increasingly used.

Where Jingdezhen was known as the main production center of refined Chinese export porcelain, the Zhangzhou kilns developed a wholly independent style. Their products are characterized by a robust execution, a thicker glaze, spontaneous brushwork, and a freer decorative style. It is precisely this lively and artisanal look that makes Zhangzhou porcelain so highly prized today by collectors of early Chinese export porcelain.

The dish is decorated in underglaze blue and features four stylized woven baskets from which graceful plants spring. The decoration combines stamped elements with hand-painted details, a technique typical of this type of porcelain.

A notable detail is the unglazed stacking ring inside, created when several dishes were stacked during the firing process. Also the broad, manually finished foot ring, the light gray body with fine iron specks and the thick, somewhat milky glaze are characteristic features of authentic Zhangzhou porcelain.

In contrast to the refined Jingdezhen porcelain, Zhangzhou porcelain was mainly intended for the markets of Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines and Japan. European traders, including the Portuguese and later the VOC, used these pieces primarily as trade goods within their extensive inter-Asian trading network. In Indonesia these dishes were often kept for generations as valuable family heirlooms (pusaka).

After the mid-17th century production definitively ceased due to political unrest during the transition from the Ming to the Qing dynasty. This makes authentic examples today among the most prized categories of early Chinese export porcelain.

Condition

The dish is in good antique condition, appropriate for its age of more than three centuries. Normal signs of use and aging are present, including a few small edge dings and light wear. No visible modern restorations as far as can be judged from the photographs.

Dimensions

* Diameter: 27 cm
* Height: 5.3 cm

Weight: 892 grams

Provenance

Zhangzhou (traditionally referred to as Swatow), Fujian, China.

Dating

Late Ming dynasty, circa 1580–1640.

The dish makes an attractive collector’s item for enthusiasts of Chinese export porcelain, Asian art, and early maritime trade goods, and is a splendid example of the flourishing trading contacts between China and Southeast Asia at the end of the Ming dynasty.

It will be shipped without the standard packaging with clever shipping safely packed, sent by registered mail and insured with track and trace.