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Qianlong period Canton Enamel Square Dish with Dragon, China Late 18th Century

About the Item

This small and exquisite Chinese Canton Qianlong period enamel square dish features cut corners and is beautifully decorated with a five-clawed pink dragon surrounded by 18 blue ruyi clouds against a vibrant yellow background. The design is accented by two branches of peaches (or similar fruit) and two branches of peach blossoms (or other fruit blossoms), all framed by an intricate seaweed pattern border. In Chinese symbolism, five-clawed dragons are reserved exclusively for emperors, as the number five is considered sacred, representing the five elements. In contrast, four-clawed dragons are associated with kings, princes, and high-ranking officials, while three-clawed dragons are designated for the merchant class. This piece is crafted from enamel on brass, dating back to the Qianlong period (1736–1795), and is characterized by its hexagonal form and the distinctive Famille Rose palette, often referred to as "Canton enamel." Chinese painted enamel, commonly known as Canton enamel, derives its name from its principal manufacturing location, Canton. This technique was introduced to China in the 18th century, likely by French missionaries, and is inspired by the enameling techniques developed in Limoges, France around 1470. It is referred to in China as "foreign porcelain," suitable since much of it was made for export. During the 18th and 19th centuries, there was significant demand in the West for Chinese porcelain dinner sets, tea services, and vases, and Canton enamel played a vital role in meeting this demand. Consequently, many Canton enamel pieces, including this dish, utilize the Famille Rose color palette, favored in European decorative arts. The creation of these wares involves applying a layer of enamel (often white) to a metal base, usually copper but occasionally silver or gold, which is then painted with colored enamels in a manner similar to porcelain. The fine quality of pieces crafted in the 18th century makes them increasingly rare and sought after by collectors today.

Dimensions:

Height: 1.07 in (2.7 cm)Width: 5.12 in (13 cm)Depth: 4.26 in (10.8 cm)

Style:

Qing (Of the Period)

Materials and Techniques:

Copper,Enamel,Enameled

Place of Origin:

China

Period:

Late 18th Century

Date of Manufacture:

Unknown

Condition:

Wear consistent with age and use. There is a small patch of loss of enamel on the underside of the dish, and on the upper side, there is a small dot of missing enamel on the dragon's neck. Please refer to the pictures.

Seller Location:

Grythyttan, SE

Reference Number:

1stDibs: LU8757242854292

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