Rectangular dish with cut corners, in underglaze cobalt blue Chinese porcelain, Qianlong, circa 1780

Historical context

During the reign of the Qianlong Emperor (1736-1795), the kilns of Jingdezhen produced this porcelain for export. Loaded onto ships of the East India Company, this dish reflects the European fascination with the Far East and the importance of trade in the 18th century.

Technique and craftsmanship

Painted entirely by hand with underglaze cobalt blue, each motif is drawn with a confident stroke, the stylized rocks and openwork pagodas revealing the mastery of Jingdezhen potters. The high-temperature firing ensures a deep and lasting contrast.

State and preservation

Preserved in impeccable condition, this dish testifies to the exceptional robustness of Chinese porcelain and the care lavished upon it by its successive owners. Its smooth, unblemished glaze showcases a decoration that was very fashionable in the last third of the 18th century.

Dimensions: 38.6 × 32 × 4.4 cm