Antique Qing Chinese Metal Tea Saucer and Cloisonne Teacup

Details

Description

A heavy antique, pierced melon-shaped teacup holder with a very nicely decorated cloisonne teacup. They both date from the late … Read more A heavy antique, pierced melon-shaped teacup holder with a very nicely decorated cloisonne teacup. They both date from the late Qing or early Republic Era and fit together very well.

The saucer is a cast metal with pierced panels and has a well to hold a teacup. The metal has been given a dark bronze patina that has darkened from age and use. The teacup's body is crafted from brass and finished with glass enamels, employing brass wires to create meticulously executed floral motifs. The teacup has a brass lip and a raised brass foot. The interior is coated in a turquoise enamel along with the base.

A cast mark within a square cartouche on the base has the character for complete, and advantage or profit. I was unable to identify the two characters on the left.

MEASUREMENTS
Saucer – 5 1/8 in (13.0 cm) long x 3 ¾ in (9.5 cm) wide x 1 ¼ in (3.2 cm) tall.
Teacup – 2 ¾ in (7.0 cm) diameter x 2 in (5.1 cm) tall.
Combined weight 7.0 oz.

CONDITION
There are no breaks, cracks, chips, or hairlines on either piece. The holder has wear along the foot ring along which the base metal is visible. Overall, the patina is dark and uneven. There is wear to the well of the cup and bumps in the enamel on the very bottom. The enamels are very bright with very minor pitting.

A beautiful and harmonious pairing; this teacup and holder exemplify the refined artistry and craftsmanship of late Qing to early Republic Era metalwork and cloisonné. See less