A PAIR OF RARE CHINESE EXPORT PORCELAIN FAMILLE ROSE PLATES OR DISHES, 18TH CENTURY, QIANLONG PERIOD. A refined and visually compelling pair of Chinese famille rose porcelain plates dating to the Qianlong period, finely potted and delicately enamelled in a harmonious palette of iron red, famille rose enamels, green, yellow and aubergine. Dimensions: Diameter: 22 cm and 22.3 cm Description Each plate is centred with an elegant polychrome floral bouquet, dominated by luxuriant peonies in full bloom, accompanied by subsidiary flowers and scrolling foliage. In Chinese symbolism, the peony is revered as the “King of Flowers” and traditionally represents wealth, honour, prosperity and high social rank, making it one of the most auspicious motifs of the High Qing period. The cavetto and rim are decorated with the complete set of the Eight Precious Objects (八寶, babao), a canonical group of auspicious Buddhist emblems symbolising prosperity, longevity, wisdom, protection and fulfilled wishes. The eight motifs include the endless knot, double coin, ruyi sceptre, flaming pearl, book scroll, ingot-form lozenge, coral or artemisia motif, and a conch- or rhino-horn-shaped emblem. Their deliberate and complete presence reflects a coherent symbolic programme rather than a purely decorative scheme, uniting material abundance with spiritual and moral ideals highly valued during the Qianlong reign. The decoration is interspersed with delicate floral sprays and framed within finely executed iron-red diaper borders, subtly enhanced with gilt accents. Condition Plate 1: In excellent, original condition, with no major chips, cracks or restoration. Plate 2: Displays a stable hairline in the centre. This hairline was secured from the reverse in the 19th century using natural gellac (shellac), a traditional organic resin historically employed in early conservation practices. Gellac is valued for being natural, reversible, and non-invasive, allowing for future conservation without compromising the original porcelain. Importantly, this historic intervention forms part of the object’s authentic life and history, reflecting period attitudes toward care and preservation rather than later restoration. The plate has not been restored or overpainted, remains structurally sound, and still produces a clear ringing tone when lightly tapped, indicating good overall integrity. This pair exemplifies the technical refinement, decorative balance and symbolic richness characteristic of Qianlong famille rose porcelain. The harmonious combination of auspicious imagery, refined enamelling and pleasing proportions makes this an appealing and historically resonant ensemble. A rare opportunity to acquire a pair from one of the most celebrated reigns in Chinese ceramic history, retaining both aesthetic elegance and tangible evidence of its long and well-documented life. Professional custom packaging, shipped worldwide via UPS with full insurance and tracking.