Chinese Porcelain Powder Blue Gilt Dragon Charger, Late Qing Dynasty, China

A sublime Chinese celadon glazed shallow dish or charger, Qing Dynasty, mid 18th century, China. Beautifully glazed, with a carved decoration of a group of lotus, leaves, stalks and blossoms. The interior wall with radiating S-shaped lines, a motif that is repeated on the wide rim of the dish. The back undecorated. Glazed all-over with an even bright celadon glaze, with some attractive areas of crackle. Ex. Butterfield's, San Francisco. Plate stand for display...

A fantastic pair of Chinese molded and glazed biscuit porcelain vases with leaping dragon fish or makara, late Qing dynasty, circa 1900. The vases of balu...

An unusual and absolutely charming Chinese porcelain turquoise glazed mythical beast, possibly a qilin or a pixiu, very late Qing Dynasty, circa 1900, China. The strange figure is ...

An exquisite pair of Chinese Export famille verte biscuit porcelain "Nesting Quail" boxes with fitted hardwood stands, late Qing Dynasty, circa 1900, China. The delightful pair of b...

This finely glazed ginger jar or vase in powder blue made in the early first quarter of the 19th century exhibits the best of Chinese monochrome porcelains...

The vase has a hexagonal shape, with a structure that extends seamlessly from the rim to the base, creating a sense of visual stability. The neck features sculpted handles in the for...

19th century rare Qing dynasty crackled (GE) glazed vase with molded three dimensional dragon forms. This very fine quality vase is particularly interesting by the presence of a kiln...

A Highly Rare Pair of Monumental Qing Dynasty Rouleau Porcelain "Dragon" Vases A Masterful Display of 19th Century Chinese Artistry: The mid-19th century Qing Dynasty marked a period of artistic innovation and imperial grandeur, as exemplified by this rare and monumental pair of Rouleau vases. These exceptional porcelain works, notable for their commanding size and vibrant palette, are a testament to the unparalleled craftsmanship that flourished during this era. Embellished with a dynamic tableau of dragons rendered in bold hues of red, green, blue, brown, and yellow, these vases embody both artistic brilliance and the deep cultural symbolism woven into Chinese decorative arts. Artistic Excellence and Symbolism: At the heart of these magnificent vases lies a visual narrative that channels the power and mystique of the dragon, a central motif in Chinese culture symbolizing imperial authority, strength, and cosmic energy. The intricate depiction of dragons in motion, intertwined amidst stylized ocean waves, conveys a sense of fluidity and dynamic movement. Each color used—the crimson reds, verdant greens, striking blues, earthy browns, and golden yellows—has been meticulously applied, reflecting a mastery of the high-fired, polychrome enameling techniques perfected during the Qing Dynasty. The Rouleau form, with its cylindrical body, short neck, and slightly flared mouth, was a favored shape for large-scale vases in the 18th and 19th centuries. The form’s structured elegance allowed for expansive decorative panels, serving as an ideal canvas for intricate, multi-layered designs. This pair demonstrates how artisans skillfully balanced the flowing movement of the dragons with the rhythmic motifs of waves, resulting in a harmonious composition that engages the viewer from every angle. Craftsmanship and Technique: These vases represent the pinnacle of porcelain artistry achieved under the Qing Dynasty, showcasing techniques that reflect centuries of refined craftsmanship. The precision in the application of overglaze enamels and the expert manipulation of kiln temperatures to achieve vibrant and consistent coloration are indicative of the expertise within the imperial kilns. The dragons' scales, rendered with remarkable detail, create a textured effect that contrasts beautifully with the smooth, undulating waves, enhancing the three-dimensional quality of the design. The depth of color and the crisp delineation of each element point to a rigorous and time-intensive process. These qualities signify the involvement of highly skilled artisans who adhered to the imperial standards set by the royal court, ensuring that each piece was a fitting representation of the empire’s wealth and cultural prowess. Historical and Cultural Significance: Vases of this caliber were not merely decorative; they were imbued with profound symbolic meaning and often commissioned for imperial use or gifted as prestigious diplomatic offerings. The dragon motif, deeply embedded in Chinese folklore and philosophy, was associated with the emperor himself—known as the "Son of Heaven"—and symbolized his divine right to rule. These vases also reflect the Qing Dynasty's flourishing export trade and the global fascination with Chinese porcelain during the 19th century. European collectors and royal patrons prized such pieces for their artistry and the exoticism they represented, contributing to a legacy that elevated Chinese porcelain to a revered status in the annals of decorative art history. Provenance and Collectability: The extraordinary scale, exceptional craftsmanship, and rarity of this pair establish them as museum-quality works. Such vases would have held a place of honor in a palace or wealthy estate, reflecting not only the owner’s status but also an appreciation for the profound cultural and artistic traditions of China. Their provenance—potentially tied to an imperial commission or significant historical collection—underscores their importance as objects of study and admiration. Provenance: Private American Collection, acquired in London, circa 1905. Thence by descent to the current owners Solomon Treasure...