Chinese Export Porcelain Rose Medallion Large Punch Bowl

Details

Description

The Canton Centerpiece: Chinese Export Rose Medallion Large Punch Bowl
Mid-19th Century

This magnificent, large-scale Chinese Export porcelain punch bowl … Read more The Canton Centerpiece: Chinese Export Rose Medallion Large Punch Bowl
Mid-19th Century

This magnificent, large-scale Chinese Export porcelain punch bowl is brilliantly decorated in the vibranRose Medallion pattern.

Both the interior and exterior of the bowl are lavishly enameled, featuring the classic dense arrangement of alternating framed panels. Half of these reserves depict lively domestic courtyard and pavilion scenes, featuring elegantly dressed figures engaged in conversation and leisure. The alternating panels are bursting with lush flora and fauna, showcasing vibrant pink peonies, exotic birds, and delicate butterflies. These elaborate scenes are woven together by a rich green and gold ground covered in scrolling pink floral vines, all radiating from a large, detailed central roundel at the bottom of the bowl.

Measurements:
Diameter: 16 inches (40.6 cm)
Height: 6 1/2 inches (16.5 cm)



Marks: The base is unmarked, which is entirely authentic and expected for antique Chinese Export porcelain of this era.

Condition: Good: The bowl displays incredibly well, with vivid, well-preserved overglaze enamels and strong gilding.

Historical Context: The Centerpiece of the China Trade

The "Rose Medallion" pattern is a specific, highly decorative subset of famille rose (pink family) porcelain that was developed in the kilns of Jingdezhen and enameled in the bustling port of Canton specifically for the foreign market. Introduced during the 19th century, its dense, colorful, and heavily gilded aesthetic was a direct response to the opulent, maximalist tastes of the Victorian era in Europe and America.

A punch bowl of this substantial size (16 inches) would have been a profoundly expensive luxury item. In the 18th and 19th centuries, the serving of hot or cold alcoholic punch was a central, highly ritualized aspect of formal entertaining and gentleman's clubs. A massive, vibrantly painted porcelain bowl like this served not just as a functional drinking vessel, but as a glittering status symbol, proudly demonstrating the host's wealth and their access to the exotic, lucrative China Trade.

(Ref: NY11057-nnar) See less