A Chinese blue and white porcelain plate from the celebrated Kangxi period, masterfully painted with the iconic and spirited “crab and aquatic life” scene, a design emblematic of late 17th-century artistry. The plate centers on a lively, finely detailed composition of a crab navigating a vibrant ecosystem. It is surrounded by swimming fish, darting shrimp, aquatic plants, and undulating waves, all executed with exceptional confidence and fluid brushwork. This dynamic tableau symbolizes abundance, scholarly leisure, and the vitality of nature, themes highly prized during the Qing dynasty. The central medallion is elegantly framed by a radiating, panelled cavetto, each segment adorned with delicate flowering sprays and foliate scrolls. The palette showcases the quintessential Kangxi cobalt blue, displaying a masterful range from soft, translucent washes to rich, inky tones, creating a remarkable sense of depth and movement. Mark of magic fungus on the bottom, in underglaze cobalt blue Provenance & Reference The design and attribution are authoritatively confirmed by a closely related example held in the permanent collection of The Metropolitan Museum of Art. https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/48262 Condition Restored in the 19th century, probably, with traditional hand-hammered metal staples (juci), a period repair that authenticates the plate's long, cherished history. The plate is completely stable, and the antique staples are now a celebrated feature among collectors of Chinese export porcelain. This is a 300-year-old survivor. Please refer to photos. The 19th-century staple repair was done when this Kangxi plate was already over 150 years old, proof that it was valued as an antique even then. Shipping: The item will be professionally packed with the utmost care, using materials designed for fragile and high-value antiques. Shipping includes full international tracking and insurance for complete peace of mind.