Exotic Grandeur: Spode Bone China Soup Tureen in "Rock & Tree" Imari Pattern (Pattern 1741)

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Exotic Grandeur: Spode Bone China Soup Tureen in "Rock & Tree" Imari Pattern (Pattern 1741)

An object of exceptional quality … Read more Exotic Grandeur: Spode Bone China Soup Tureen in "Rock & Tree" Imari Pattern (Pattern 1741)

An object of exceptional quality and historical resonance, this Spode bone china soup tureen and cover, in the vibrant "Rock & Tree" Japan-pattern (Pattern 1741), dates from the highly influential period of circa 1811–1820. This piece is a superb example of Spode's mastery in adapting the exotic aesthetic of Asian porcelain for the discerning English market.

Design and Decoration
The tureen presents a dazzling and complex decorative scheme characteristic of the Imari style, a Japan-pattern variation that Spode pioneered in English ceramics. The central motif is the striking "Rock & Tree" design, where a dark, flowering tree gracefully ascends against a sophisticated light blue ground. This primary element is surrounded by stylized botanical motifs rendered in a vivid polychrome palette that includes rich iron red, cobalt blue, and dense gilding.

The tureen body is further enriched by intricate paneled decoration:

Alternate Panels feature lush gilt foliate motifs paired with bright orange floral embellishments.

The other panel series provides a dramatic contrast, showcasing dark blue grounds accented with detailed gilt leaves and delicate orange and white flower heads.

Structural and Sculptural Elements
Adding a distinctive sculptural flourish, the handles and the cover’s finial are modeled in the form of elegant serpents (or dragons), all sumptuously executed in gilding. This choice of handles—a fantastical, serpentine form—highlights the piece's luxurious status and the contemporary delight in Orientalist themes.

Historical Context: The Japan-Pattern at Spode

This pattern, first introduced by Spode around 1811, reflects the period’s deep fascination with, and direct emulation of, 18th-century Oriental Export porcelain prototypes. Spode, under the direction of Josiah Spode II, was a key innovator in the development and popularization of English bone china. By expertly incorporating the rich, structured decoration of Japanese Kakiemon and Imari wares—which were typically characterized by segmented, contrasting fields of color—Spode successfully translated the exotic grandeur of the East into a highly desirable, domestically manufactured luxury item, perfect for the grand dining tables of the Regency era.

Dimensions: 16.5 inches (width, handle to handle) ×9 inches (depth) ×9 inches (height, including finial) (41.91cm wide ×22.86cm wide ×22.86cm high).

Marking: The tureen is definitively marked on the base with the pattern number, Spode 1741 in red script.

(Ref NY10752-lkmx)

This meticulously hand-painted pattern reflects a direct emulation of 18th-century Oriental Export porcelain prototypes, demonstrating the period's fascination with and adaptation of Eastern decorative arts.

Dimensions: 16.5 inches (width) x 9 inches (depth) x 9 inches (height) (41.91cm wide x 22.86cm wide x 22.86cm high).

Mark: Spode/1741 in red script on base of the tureen.

Reference: NY10752-lkmx) See less