Chinese Export Polychrome ‘Grapevine’ Ginger Jar and Cover

Details

Description

20th century, blue printed MADE IN CHINA mark
A charming ovoid ginger jar and shallow domed cover, decorated overall in … Read more 20th century, blue printed MADE IN CHINA mark
A charming ovoid ginger jar and shallow domed cover, decorated overall in the doucai-inspired palette with a continuous fruiting grapevine, the pendent clusters of grapes rendered in shades of rose-pink, puce and aubergine amid trailing tendrils and broad leaves alternately washed in underglaze-style blue and translucent green, with accents of yellow, all reserved on a warm white ground between double-line borders at the mouth and foot. The cover is en suite with further grape clusters and foliage encircling a tapering bud-form finial. The grapevine, emblematic of abundance and fertility of descendants in Chinese decorative art, has been a favoured export subject since the eighteenth century, and the present jar continues that tradition in a fresh, decorative idiom. The slightly recessed base bears a printed two-line mark in underglaze blue reading MADE IN CHINA, confirming manufacture for the Western export trade in the twentieth century. An appealing small cabinet jar, well suited to interior decoration singly or as part of a garniture. Please request a full condition report for details.
— THE HOUSE —
From The Orient Gates: four generations of the Harb family, Damascene artisans and antique dealers since the 1870s, heirs of the painter Abou Sobhi Al-Tinawi (Muhammad Harb). Every piece is examined, restored and documented in our family ateliers. A certificate of authenticity accompanies every piece.
— DETAILS —
Origin: China, for the export market
Period: 20th century, circa 1930–1970
Materials: Porcelain, Polychrome enamels
Dimensions: Height: 22 cm (8¾ in.) See less