18th Century Chinese Export Armorial Cabinet Plates - Group of 3

Details

Description

A group of three 18th century (circa 1775 - 1800) armorial plates. Having overglaze painted crest framed with under glaze … Read more A group of three 18th century (circa 1775 - 1800) armorial plates. Having overglaze painted crest framed with under glaze indigo bands further enriched with gilded highlights. Both the central crest and the underglaze decoration of subtle but ornate blue cross hatched geometric designs, are entirely hand painted with accuracy and precision. One can only imagine the lengthy amount of time it took to decorate just one plate.

Group comprising of:
two soup plates - 9.1" Dia. x 1.5" H
one warming plate - 11.2" W x 9.6" D x 1.2" H

The the soup plates have a painted heraldic symbol featuring an initial 'R', an ermine cape and the crest of the Robertson clan of Scotland which is the dexter hand holding up an imperial crown and the motto - 'Viritutis Gloria Merces' (Glory is the reward of valour).

The warming plate is decorated with painted gold initials 'HH' within a shield motif, and an ermine cape with additional ribbon designs in gold red and blue, a solid indigo band on the verge and the rim of the plate.

Signifying luxury and status, Chinese export porcelain, especially the bespoke armorial services were highly sought after by wealthy families and collectors in the 18th century. Orders for such services were typically placed through agents of the East India Company. The cost of commissioning a complete set of personalized armorial service was significant, potentially amounting to $15,000 in today's currency.

Thomas Jefferson owned a set of dinner service with an identical pattern to these soup plates, and example of his set is shown in the 11th image. See less