Rouen, Wyvern Platter "à la guivre", France 18th Century

About the Item

Superb Rouen Wyvern platter ("à la Guivre") from 18th century France. Exquisite and rare museum quality piece. Decorations of a parrot carrying a branch, butterflies, an aquatic landscape and the asian art inspired dragon. These dragons are different from those found in European fairy tales and films. In China, they're in the arts, zodiac signs and festivals ("Dragon Dance" at Chinese New Year). They embody power, perseverance... Linked to the sky and water, they have meteorological powers, such as making it rain. So they often live in tumultuous rivers, at the bottom of oceans... hence the lake over which this dragon "flies". What's more, this earthenware dragon has a long serpentine body, a ferocious bearded mouth and the sharp claws (or talons) of an eagle, just like in Chinese tradition. Legends also tell us that these creatures undergo many transformations, their bodies sometimes consisting of nine different animal parts. You'll find at least three of them here: shrimp (or rabbit or demon) eyes, deer antlers and catfish whiskers. The French artists and earthenware makers who created this dish also played with its appearance: the figure is as majestic and regal as it is comical and decorative - appearing to dance amidst its surrounding decor. He is also in the presence of another animal: the parrot, at the very top of the décor. In China and Japan, the parrot is a harbinger of rain, so it is no coincidence that it is here. Excellent condition. Some small production faults common of this type of production seen in pictures. Dimensions in cm ( H x L x D ) : 44.5 x 34.5 x 4.5 Secure shipping.

Dimensions:

Height: 17.52 in (44.5 cm)Width: 13.59 in (34.5 cm)Depth: 1.78 in (4.5 cm)

Materials and Techniques:

Ceramic

Period:

18th Century

Date of Manufacture:

18th Century

Condition:

Seller Location:

PARIS, FR

Reference Number: