Chinese Zhangzhou (“Swatow”) Blue-and-White Xport Charger,

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Chinese Zhangzhou (“Swatow”) Blue-and-White Charger, Late Ming Dynasty, circa 1575–1625

A large Chinese Zhangzhou export-ware charger, traditionally known as Swatow … Read more Chinese Zhangzhou (“Swatow”) Blue-and-White Charger, Late Ming Dynasty, circa 1575–1625

A large Chinese Zhangzhou export-ware charger, traditionally known as Swatow ware, probably dating to the late Ming dynasty. The plate is heavily potted with a pale ivory-gray glaze and loosely painted cobalt-blue floral and calligraphic motifs around the rim.

The surface shows characteristic firing irregularities, including iron spotting, kiln residue, and a broad circular stacking scar in the center. The underside has visible throwing lines, coarse kiln deposits, and firing discoloration typical of Zhangzhou production. The small red mark in the center appears to be a later collector’s or dealer’s mark rather than an original reign mark.

Made in Fujian Province for the export market, this type of ware was widely traded throughout Southeast Asia, Japan, and Europe during the late 16th and early 17th centuries. See less