Pair of 18th C. Chinese Export Blue & White Foliate Narrative Bowls

Details

Description

Pair of 18th C. Chinese Export Blue & White Foliate Narrative Bowls

This matched pair of deep saucers or bowls … Read more Pair of 18th C. Chinese Export Blue & White Foliate Narrative Bowls

This matched pair of deep saucers or bowls features an exceptionally complex and lively narrative composition. The central well of each bowl depicts two birds in flight—symbolizing partnership and high rank—amongst blossoming branches and stylized garden elements.

Key Artisanal Details:
"Long Eliza" Narrative Border: The interior walls are meticulously divided into multiple vertical panels, each containing a finely painted scholarly figure or maiden (traditionally called "Long Elizas"), alternating with panels of garden flora.
Scalloped Foliate Rim: Each piece features a delicate, flower-shaped "foliate" rim that adds a sophisticated silhouette to the form.
Exterior Symbolism: The exterior is decorated with alternating panels of "Precious Objects" and floral sprays, ensuring the piece is visually engaging from every angle.
Authentic Markings: The underside of each bowl is finished with an underglaze blue four-character floral mark within a double-ring border, an authentic mark used to denote quality in 18th-century export ware.

Dimensions
Diameter: 6 inches
Height: 2 inches

Condition
Very Good Antique Condition. Both bowls maintain a brilliant, high-gloss glaze and deep, vibrant cobalt blue coloration. Consistent with their 250-year history, there is light, age-appropriate "flea-biting" along the delicate scalloped rims. The unglazed footrims show authentic age-toning and minor kiln artifacts from the original firing. There are no major chips, cracks, or professional restorations detected.

An exceptional find for the serious collector, this pair of Qianlong-era bowls captures the elegance of the 18th-century China Trade. Their rare combination of figure decoration and foliate form makes them a premier choice for a Grandmillennial vitrine or a traditional scholarly collection. See less