Recent Acquisitions

On this page you'll find my latest acquisitions.

This way you can quickly browse through my recently acquired objects without having to browse through all the various categories.

After some time, each object in 'Recent Acquisitions' will be moved to their specific category.

Latest update: Recent Acquisitions; May 20, 2025.

2012643

Japanese Blue and White wares 17th Century

Object 2012643

Sleeve vase / Rolwagen 

Japan

1670-1690

Height 240 mm (9.44 inch), diameter of mouthrim 85 mm (3.35 inch), diameter of footring 80 mm (3.15 inch), weight 678 grams (23.92 ounce (oz.))

Cylindrical sleeve vase or rolwagen, the flat base partially glazed leaving areas of the body exposed and burnt orange during the firing. Short neck, spreading rim. Decorated in underglaze blue with grasses, pine and a large flowering peony plant growing from pierced rockwork. In between these plants a bird and a moth in flight with two flocks of birds. Round the foot and on the shoulder a zig-zag lines pattern border and on the neck and rim a border with descending pointed leaves.

The shape and decoration indicate a model of Chinese 'Transitional' porcelain. Chinese rolwagens - slender, cylindrical vases - were part of the VOC export assortment and enjoyed great popularity in Europe as decorative objects. Considerable number still exists. Therefore, one expects a large production of Japanese imitations, but this is not the case. They are relatively rare and never as large as the Chinese models. The name 'rolwagen' now common in English, is the traditional Dutch name for this type of vase. It may have derived this name (literally, 'rolling wagon') from an element in a scene which frequently occurs on these Chinese vases, namely a figure seated in a cart with two big wheels, the rolwagen. Most surviving Arita examples are small, larger examples are rare. A pair is in the Burghley House Collection, Stamford. (Jörg & Van Campen 1997, p.78, cat. 66), (Jörg 2003/1, p. 32, cat. 15)

The decoration on this rolwagen, shows a Japanisation of the Japanese copy of the original Chinese rolwagen where the figures in a landscape (see sold object 2011857) have been replaced by a more Japanese floral style. The floral decoration refers to the arrival of autumn season. It was used in Japan to decorate the interior during to this season and by doing so creating a different interior atmosphere during each season. 

Until now it was believed that these Japanese rolwagens only came in two sizes, small about (c.180 mm 7.08 inch) and the large (c.280 mm 11.02 inch). The height of this rolwagen 240 mm (9.44 inch) clearly indicates that there must have been a third (middle) size as well.

For a similarly shaped small, c.182 mm (7.17 inch), rolwagens, please see:

• Sold Ceramics - Sold Japanese Blue and White wares 17th Century - Other wares - Page 1 - Object 2011857.

• Fine & Curious, Japanese export porcelain in Dutch Collections, (C.J.A. Jörg, Hotei Publishing, Amsterdam, 2003), p.32, cat. 15.

For identically shaped large, c.280 mm (11.02 inch) rolwagens, please see:

• H.A. Daendels, Catalogus tentoonstelling Japans blauw wit Porselein. Op Hollandse bestelling en in de Japanse smaak, exhibition catalogue Gemeentelijk Museum Het Princessehof, Leeuwarden 1981. Also Published as Mededelingenblad Nederlandse Vereniging van Vrienden van de Ceramiek, vols. 101/102, p.55, cat. 72.
• The Wrestling Boys. Chinese and Japanese Ceramics from the 16th to the 18th Century in the Collection at Burghley House, (The Trustees of Burghley House, Stamford 1981), p.59, cat. 142.
• Fine & Curious, Japanese export porcelain in Dutch Collections, (C.J.A. Jörg, Hotei Publishing, Amsterdam, 2003), p.17, cat. 50.
• Porcelain for Palaces. The Fashion for Japan in Europe 1650-1750, (J. Ayers, O. Impey & J.V.G. Mallet, Oriental Ceramic Society & The British Museum, London 1990), p.97, cat. 38.

For a similarly decorated Chinese 'Transitional' rolwagen, please see:

• Chinese Ceramics in the Collection of the Rijksmuseum Amsterdam. The Ming and Qing Dynasties, (C.J.A. Jörg in collaboration with J. van Campen, Rijksmuseum Amsterdam, London 1997), p.78, cat. 66.

Condition: A firing flaw to the base.

References:

Daendels 1981, cat. 72

Stamford 1981, cat. 50

Ayers, Impey & Mallet 1990, cat. 38 

Jörg & Van Campen 1997, cat. 66

Jörg 2003/1, cat. 15 

Price: Sold.

More pictures >>

2011187 & 2011189

Shipwreck Porcelains - The Diana Cargo, 1817

Objects 2011187 and 2011189

A glazed toy duck and toy duckling

China

c.1816 

Provenance: The Diana Cargo sale, Christie's Amsterdam, 6-7 March 1995

2011187: height 74 mm (2.91 inch), dimensions 125 mm (4.92 inch) x 65 mm (2.56 inch), weight 114 grams (4.02 ounce (oz.))

2011189: height 38 mm (1.50 inch), dimensions 30 mm (1.18 inch) x 55 mm (2.16 inch), weight 25 grams (0.88 ounce (oz.))

Glazed toy duck and duckling each moulded with naturalistic legs, wing and tail feathers and impressed circular eye, under a straw glaze with scattered green and brown spots. On both toy duck and toy duckling the original 'Christie's Diana Cargo March 1995'' sale lot 942 label proving they have been two of four toy ducks, and four toy ducklings sold in lot 942.

Ball states that of the 877 terracotta statues, animal statue predominated. There were crowing cocks, seated dogs, paddling ducks, horses and buffalo. The finest one of all was the boy on a buffalo. Amazingly, the paint had survived on many of them and apart from their desirability for reasons of religion or superstition, they would make attractive display pieces too. The objects were especially popular with the more superstitious southern Chinese communities in Guandong, Fujian, and Zhejiary provinces, and little secular groups. Figures were normally carried as "private" cargo, not in bulk; but there is evidence that there were several hundred on Diana, so maybe the Madrassi principals thought it was worth experimenting with the local markets in India. The Chinese never regarded ceramic sculptures as a serious art form. Unlike Western potters, who were excited by trying to recreate in a ceramic medium the achievements of the European stone and wood sculptural tradition, the Chinese made pottery and porcelain figures as a very cheap substitute only for other media like stone, wood or even ivory and soapstone) in Fujian province'. Ceramic figures never formed the bulk part of a cargo coming back from the West+ except for a brief period a century before Diana, when blanc de Chine figures became sufficiently popular for large quantities to be shipped from a temporary entrepôt at Amoy. Apart from that moment, Diana tells us, more than any other excavated ship's cargo, about what figures the Chinese were producing, and what was popular abroad even when largely divorced from their original context. (Ball 1995, pp.145-149)

In total 74 glazed toy ducks and 88 glazed toy ducklings were sold divided over the lots: 919-944. (Amsterdam 1995)

For other, earlier sold duck and duckling, please see:

• Sold Ceramics - Sold Shipwreck Porcelains - The Diana Cargo, 1817 - Page 1 - Object 2011191.

• Sold Ceramics - Sold Shipwreck Porcelains - The Diana Cargo, 1817 - Page 1 - Object 2011186.

Condition: Both perfect. 

References:

Amsterdam 1995, lot 919-944

Ball 1995, pp.145-149

Price: Sold.

More pictures of object 2011187 >>

More pictures of object 2011189 >>

2010C332 & 2010C333

Blanc de Chine 1600-1900

Objects 2010C332 & 2010C333

A pair of (Adam and Eve) figurines 

China

c.1700

Provenance object 2010C332 (Eve): Guest & Gray, object number Y269, The United Kingdom.

Provenance object 2010C333 (Adam): J.B.A.M. Ott Fine Arts, Zutphen, The Netherlands.

2010C332 (Eve) Height 227 mm (5.24 inch), dimensions 75 mm (2.24 inch) x 60 mm (1.77 inch), weight 470 grams (7.44 ounce (oz.))

2010C333 (Adam) Height 231 mm (5.24 inch), dimensions 75 mm (2.24 inch) x 65 mm (1.77 inch), weight 531 grams (7.44 ounce (oz.))

Two figures, blanc de Chine, Dehua kilns representing a half-naked man and a half-naked woman both with a robe wrapped around their lower bodies. Both standing on a pedestal in the form of a boulder. On the base of object 2010C332 (Eve) a circular paper dealers label with the text: Guest & Gray, a rectangular paper label with the handwritten text: Y269 Chinese blanc de chine Figure of Eve Kangxi (1662-1722) and a rectangular paper label with the text :259. * Statuette af frittelignende, elfenbenshvidt Porcellaen. En nogen, staande Kineserinde med Draperi. Prov. Fuhkien, 18. Aarh. >>Chien-yao<< Blanc de Chine. H. 22 Ctm. On the base of object 2010C333 (Adam) a rectangular paper dealers label with the text: J.B.A.M. Ott Fine Arts Zutphen, The Netherlands.

The white, undecorated blanc de Chine with its ivory-grey or creamy-white glaze on a thick, pure-white body was produced in kilns in and around Dehua in southern China. Since the late 16th century, potters there specialised in figures of animals and Chinese Immortals, especially of Guanyin, the patroness of womenSoutheast Asia / Other Ceramics, poor people and fishermen. Unusually for Chinese depictions of women, Guanyin has bare feet. Occasionally figures of Europeans were made, sometimes riding a mythical animal, and even statues of Mary and Child or Mary and a monk are known. Apart for export, these figures might also have served as curiosities or 'Western exotics' for Chinese collectors. Figures and other items such as teapots, covered boxes and vases were made in moulds. Interesting are the so-called libation cups, modelled after examples made from rhinoceros's horn. The rough surface and sometimes even the imprint of the potter's fingers can be seen on the inside of hollow figures. Decorations in relief, for instance of plum blossom, are hardly detailed. It is the thick, shiny glaze emphasising the simple form that makes blanc de Chine so attractive. In particular on figures, blanc de Chine may have a potter's or workshop mark. Blanc de Chine was much in demand in Europe as an exotic curiosity and figures were often overdecorated locally in black or red cold paint. Blanc de Chine figures are still being made in Dehua, often using the traditional techniques. 

Christian influence

This is perhaps the point at which to introduce the figures, naked from the waist up, known in Europe as Adam and Eve (Plate 121c). The male figure is sometimes called The Slave, but this I think is no more than a dealer's term, for slaves in China were not dressed (or undressed) in this fashion. They are innocuous enough little figures, the legs rather clumsily modelled, perhaps indicative of our potter's unfamiliarity with that part of the human anatomy. they are certainly not medical figurines shown to the doctor as a substitute for physical examination, for the female figure in that case would not be partially clad, and there would be no need at all for the male one. It is easier by far to say what these figures are not that what they are. I have put them into the export category firstly because their hair styles (there is little else to go by) seem vaguely European, and secondly because they are found in Europe in fair numbers, but van Goidsenhoven published a version of the female figure with a manifestly Chinese hair style, a high comb-like roll encircling the forehead. he suggests she may be T'an-ki, a famous concubine of the Emperor Tsu of the Yin dynasty. She is said to have caused young people of both sexes to discard their clothes, and encouraged their excesses. I find myself unable to give this story any more credence than those other offerings from that author, and his explanation does nothing to explain the existence of the young man. It is curious, too, that the woman is the taller of the pair -is there any folklore significance here? The dating of these figures to the K'ang-hsi period presents no problem, since Augustus the Strong had six examples of Eve [N25] before 1721. At that time her hair was painted black, and since the cataloger records two sizes, 9 and 9 1/2 inch, he probably had the model recorded by van Goidsenhoven as well. Adam is missing unless he lurks, painted, in the red section of the inventory. The quality is good apart from the rather poor modelling already mentioned (Donnelly 1969, p.194, p.196 & p.340)

(Reproduced from: Blanc de Chine. The Porcelain of Têhua in Fukien, (P.J. Donnelly, Faber and Faber, London, 1969), fig 121c)

Normally they are not together but they are constructed as a pair. Adam and Eve is their Western name. However, they can also be figures that represent Filipino or Taiwanese aboriginals. They are fairly rare figures, certainly a couple.

For identically shaped and sized Adam and Eve figurines, please see;

• Blanc de Chine. The Porcelain of Têhua in Fukien, (P.J. Donnelly, Faber and Faber, London, 1969), fig 121c.
• SKD Online collection, PO. 3249. 

Condition: Both perfect.

References:

Donnelly 1969, p.194, p.196 & p.340, fig 121c

SKD Online collection, PO. 3249. 

Price: Sold.

More pictures >>

2010C331

Japanese Early Overglaze Enamelled wares 1660-1680

Object 2010C331

Ewer

Japan

c.1660

Height 218 mm (8.58 inch), diameter 101 mm (3.98 inch), diameter of mouthrim 37 mm (1.46 inch), diameter of footring 59 mm (2.32 inch), weight 530 grams (18.70 ounce (oz.))

Ewer of ovoid body on spreading foot, cylindrical neck and a large mouth with a pinched spout. Curved pierced handle. The shallow conical base is glazed. Decorated with early enamels with swirling clouds and scattered flowerheads on a red basketwork. Round the base, the foot and neck broad, red enamelled, bands and lines. Round the shoulder a stylised border with leaves and flowerheads and on the neck a border with lozenge-shaped decorative elements. On the rim a border with upturned spiky lotus leaves. On the handle a single flowerhead with a swirling scroll in red. 

The background of red lines is interesting. It is also seen on other pieces of this period but does not occur on underglaze-blue decorated objects. Similar red grounds, usually of spirals or diapers, are  found in Chinese Transitional wucai porcelain, and it is likely that the Japanese adopted this element from Chinese models, as was done with the panelling of the decoration. Nevertheless, the result is altogether Japanese in atmosphere. (Jörg 1999, p.57, cat. 42)

Japanese ewers decorated with early enamels are yet unrecorded in Museum collections as well as in literature.  

Condition: A firing flaw, with connecting firing hairlines to the bottom, some loss of enamel to the various scattered flowerheads.

Reference:

Jörg 2003/1, p.57

Price: Sold.

More pictures >>

2011259D

Japanese Tea, Coffee and Chocolate wares 18th Century

Object 2011259D

Tea bowl and saucer

Japan

1700-1730

Height of tea bowl 37 mm (1.46 inch), diameter of rim 66 mm (2.60 inch), diameter of footring 30 mm (1.18 inch), weight 41 grams (1.44 ounce (oz.))

Height of saucer 25 mm (0.98 inch), diameter of rim 122 mm (4.80 inch), diameter of footring 60 mm (2.36 inch), weight 95 grams (3.35 ounce (oz.))

Tea bowl and saucer on footrings, slightly everted rims. Imari decorated in underglaze blue, iron-red, gray, yellow and black enamel with gold with a central flower spray surround by a double underglaze blue band. On the sides two hart-shaped reserves one filled with a flowering chrysanthemum spray the other with a flowering peony spray both on a golden ground and alternating with riverscapes with pagodas, trees, mountains and waterfalls. On the rim a band with up and down turned lotus leaves filled with golden and iron-red lines. On the reverse two widespread flower sprays, near and on the footring three concentric bands in underglaze blue. On the base a single flower spray. The tea bowl is decorated en suite. 

The decorative style on this teacup and saucer is very similar to that used on other, earlier sold, Japanese Imari tea ware. The translucent enamel colours, the zig-zag lines-pattern borders and the reverses with the three widespread flower sprays are all very similar. This could indicate that these may be the product of a single workshop but may or may not be the product of a single kiln, specialised in these high-quality tea wares. Judging by Dutch 18th century sales and inventories, Japanese porcelain was quite expensive at the time and even more highly valued than its Chinese counterpart.

Condition: 

Tea bowl: Perfect.

Saucer: Perfect with some fine crazing to the glaze caused during the cooling down process after the firing process.

Price: Sold.

More pictures >>

2011259B & 2011259C

Japanese Tea, Coffee and Chocolate wares 18th Century

Object 2011259B & 2011259C

A pair of tea bowls and saucers

Japan

1700-1730

2011259B: Height of tea bowl 32 mm (1.26 inch), diameter of rim 68 mm (2.68 inch), diameter of footring 30 mm (1.18 inch), weight 48 grams (1.69 ounce (oz.)) 

2011259C: Height of tea bowl 32 mm (1.26 inch), diameter of rim 68 mm (2.68 inch), diameter of footring 29 mm (1.14 inch), weight 38 grams (1.34 ounce (oz.))

2011259B: Height of saucer 23 mm (0.91 inch), diameter of rim 122 mm (4.80 inch), diameter of footring 61 mm (2.40 inch), weight 89 grams (3.14 ounce (oz.))

2011259C: Height of saucer 23 mm (0.91 inch), diameter of rim 123 mm (4.84 inch), diameter of footring 61 mm (2.40 inch), weight 102 grams (3.60 ounce (oz.))

A pair of tea bowls and saucers on footrings, slightly everted rims. Imari decorated in underglaze blue, iron-red, gray, yellow and black enamel with gold with a central flower spray surround by a double underglaze blue band. On the sides two hart-shaped reserves one filled with a flowering chrysanthemum spray the other with a flowering peony spray both on a golden ground and alternating with riverscapes with pagodas, trees, mountains and waterfalls. On the rims bands with up and down turned lotus leaves filled with lines. On the reverses two widespread flower sprays, near and on the footrings three concentric bands in underglaze blue. On the bases a single flower spray. The tea bowl is decorated en suite. 

The decorative style on this teacup and saucer is very similar to that used on other, earlier sold, Japanese Imari tea ware. The translucent enamel colours, the zig-zag lines-pattern borders and the reverses with the three widespread flower sprays are all very similar. This could indicate that these may be the product of a single workshop but may or may not be the product of a single kiln, specialised in these high-quality tea wares. Judging by Dutch 18th century sales and inventories, Japanese porcelain was quite expensive at the time and even more highly valued than its Chinese counterpart.

For a identically shaped sized and decorated, sold, tea bowl and saucer, please see:

• Japanese Tea, Coffee and Chocolate wares 18th Century - Object 2011259A. 

Conditions: 

2011259B Tea bowl: Perfect. 

2011259C Tea bowl: Perfect.

2011259C Saucer: Some fine crazing to the glaze caused during the cooling down process after the firing process.

2011259C Saucer: Some fine crazing to the glaze caused during the cooling down process after the firing process.

Price: Sold.

More pictures >>

2012635

Japanese Early Overglaze Enamelled wares 1660-1680

Object 2012635

Saucer

Japan

1660-1680

Height 19 mm (0.75 inch), diameter of rim 116 mm (4.57 inch), diameter of footring 60 mm (2.36 inch), weight 86 grams (3.30 ounce (oz.))

Saucer on footring, straight rim. On the base a single spur-mark. Decorated in early enamels with a flowerpot filled with rocks and various flowering plants encircled by a double concentric band. On the sides and rim four broad panels filled with rocks, flowering plants and grasses reserved on red basketwork

The panelling in red is unusual in Kakiemon but is paralleled in the very large bowl at Dresden illustrated by Reichel, 1981, pl.23. (Impey 2002, p.134, cat.183)

(The very large bowl at Dresden illustrated by Reichel, 1981, pl.23. not included in this sale/offer, private picture)

Enamels are basically powdered glass coloured with metallic oxides and mixed with a binding agent to make a paste that can be painted onto metal, glass or ceramic objects. When the objects are fired in a special double-walled kiln called a "muffle kiln" to a temperature in the range of 600-850 degrees Celsius, the enamels melt and adhere to the surface, creating a colourful design.

The application of enamels to ceramics may have started in Iran during the twelfth century and was known in China by the thirteenth century. Porcelain enamelling began in China in the fifteenth century but did not become widely popular there until the sixteenth century. Over time, Chinese enamellers developed a broad palette of colours that included red, yellow, green, turquoise, aubergine and black. These colours were often used in conjunction with underglaze blue to create rich polychromatic designs.

The knowledge of porcelain enamelling probably spread from China to Japan in the 1640s and may have been brought by potters fleeing the turmoil that accompanied the fall of the Ming dynasty. Some influences may also have come to Arita from Kyoto, where a potter named Nonomura Ninsei was developing a style of enamelled earthenware at around the same time.

Wherever the enamelling technique came from, Japanese porcelain decorators soon made it their own. They developed their own colours (including a cobalt-blue enamel that did not become common in China until much later) and used the enamels in different ways to create different types of designs. As both domestic and foreign demand for Japanese porcelain increased in the second half of the seventeenth century, enamelled wares gradually became the most important focus of the industry. (Impey, Jörg & Mason 2009, p.79)

For a similarly decorated objects, please see:

• Early Japanese Porcelain: Arita Porcelain in the Dresden Collection, (F. Reichel, Londen 1981), cat. 23.
• Japanese Export Porcelain. Catalogue of the Collection of the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, (O. Impey, Hotei Publishing, Amsterdam, 2002), p.134, cat. 183.

Condition: Two restored frits to the reverse rim, one with a connected hairline.

References:

Reichel 1981, cat. 23

Impey 2002, cat.183

Jörg 2003/1, pp.49-51, cat. 34

Impey, Jörg & Mason 2009, p.79

Price: Sold.

More pictures >>

2012639

Japanese Tea, Coffee and Chocolate wares 18th Century

Object 2012639

Saucer

Japan

1690-1730

Height 22 mm (0.87 inch), diameter of rim 124 mm (4.88 inch), diameter of footring 54 mm (2.12 inch), weight 105 grams (3.70 ounce (oz.))

Saucer on footring, spreading sides. Imari decorated in, iron-red and yellow, aubergine, green, grey, black enamels and gold with four kneeled figures on a terrace drinking tea in a ''Chinese style', which did not require a saucer for the cup, in a central roundel. On the sides and rim leafy scroll borders with peony, carnation and chrysanthemum flower heads. The reverse is undecorated.

Decorations executed entirely in enamel colours can be classed among the early Imari group, this type of 'tea ceremony' decoration must have had an exotic appeal to the Western buyer. Although no underglaze-blue was used in this type of decoration both O. Impey and C.J.A. Jörg categorise this 'in enamels only' type of decoration as Imari. (Jörg 1995, pp.115-116)

Four identically shaped, sized and decorated saucers, all found in England, are in an English private collection.

For an identically decorated saucer, please see;

• Complete Catalogue of the Shibata Collection, (The Kyushu Ceramic Museum, Kyushu 2003), p.357, cat 2793.
• The collection of the Victoria & Albert Museum, London, Museum number: FE.69-1970.

• Sold Ceramics - Sold Japanese Tea, Coffee and Chocolate wares 18th Century - Page 1 - Object 2011262.

 For similarly decorated objects, please see;

• Japanese Export Porcelain. Catalogue of the Collection of the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, (O. Impey, Hotei Publishing, Amsterdam, 2002), p.218, cat. 373 & 374.
• Fine & Curious: Japanese Export Porcelain in Dutch Collections, (C.J.A. Jörg, Hotei Publishing, Amsterdam 2003), p.199, cat. 253.

Condition: Some wear to the golden decoration, three hairlines and a restored frit to the reverse rim.

References:

Jörg 1995, cat. 52

Impey 2002, cat. 373 & 374

Jörg 2003/1, cat. 253

Kyushu 2003, cat. 2793

www.vam.ac.uk

Price: Sold.

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2011259a

Japanese Tea, Coffee and Chocolate wares 18th Century

Object 2011259A

Tea bowl and saucer

Japan

1700-1730

Height of tea bowl 32 mm (1.25 inch), diameter of rim 67 mm (2.63 inch), diameter of footring 29 mm (1.14 inch), weight 43 grams (1.52 ounce (oz.))

Height of saucer 22 mm (0.87 inch), diameter of rim 123 mm (4.84 inch), diameter of footring 61 mm (2.40 inch), weight 111 grams (3.92 ounce (oz.))

Tea bowl and saucer on footrings, slightly everted rims. Imari decorated in underglaze blue, iron-red, gray, yellow and black enamel with gold with a central flower spray surround by a double underglaze blue band. On the sides two hart-shaped reserves one filled with a flowering chrysanthemum spray the other with a flowering peony spray both on a golden ground and alternating with riverscapes with pagodas, trees, mountains and waterfalls. On the rim a band with up and down turned lotus leaves filled with golden and iron-red lines. On the reverse two widespread flower sprays, near and on the footring three concentric bands in underglaze blue. On the base a single flower spray. The tea bowl is decorated en suite. 

The decorative style on this teacup and saucer is very similar to that used on other, earlier sold, Japanese Imari tea ware. The translucent enamel colours, the zig-zag lines-pattern borders and the reverses with the three widespread flower sprays are all very similar. This could indicate that these may be the product of a single workshop but may or may not be the product of a single kiln, specialised in these high-quality tea wares. Judging by Dutch 18th century sales and inventories, Japanese porcelain was quite expensive at the time and even more highly valued than its Chinese counterpart.

Condition: 

Tea bowl: A very tiny fleabite to the rim.

Saucer: Some fine crazing to the glaze caused during the cooling down process after the firing process.

Price: Sold.

More pictures >>

2012640

Chine de commande - Armorial / Pseudo-Armorial wares 1700-1800 - Armorial - Dutch

Object 2012640

Saucer

China

c.1740-1750

Height 20 mm (0.79 inch), diameter of rim 119 mm (4.69 inch), diameter of footring 69 mm (2.72 inch), weight 69 grams (2.43 ounce (oz.))

Saucer on footring, slightly flaring rim. Decorated in underglaze blue, encre de Chine (grisaille), iron-red and gold with a unknown coat of arms. The arms are impaled, 1. parted per fess, in each part a couped cross, 2. a covered jug. On the sides a band of lotus flowers and scrollwork in underglaze blue. The rim with an engrailed border with ball points in gold and rouge de fer. The reverse is undecorated. 

This service, of which only one other saucer is known, is unidentified, but probably Dutch because it descended from Mrs. Jaaike Fellinga - Bouwes van Dijk (1814-1905), the grandmother of the Princessehof curator, Nanne Ottema (1874-1955), who in turn bequeathed it to this museum. Curiously, a martlet has been painted between the shield and the helmet which is surmounted by a coronet.

For this saucer, please see:

• Chinese Armorial Porcelain for the Dutch Market, Chinese Porcelain with Coats of Arms of Dutch Families, (J. Kroes, Waanders Publishers, Zwolle, 2007), p.440, cat. no. 316.
• Collectie Keramiekmuseum Princessehof, Inventarisnummer NO 00576.
• Ottema-Kingma Stichting, Objectnummer NO 00576.

There are two other tea services known in this specific style namely:

The "J. de Wit 3", c.1741-1743 tea service 

(Reproduced from Chinese Armorial Porcelain for the Dutch Market, Chinese Porcelain with Coats of Arms of Dutch Families, (J. Kroes, Waanders Publishers, Zwolle, 2007), p.439, cat. no. 360.)

and 

An unidentified probably Dutch coat of arms with monogram "HVSB", c.1740-1745 

(Reproduced from Chinese Armorial Porcelain for the Dutch Market, Chinese Porcelain with Coats of Arms of Dutch Families, (J. Kroes, Waanders Publishers, Zwolle, 2007), p.440, cat. no. S33.)

Condition: A tiny fleabite to the rim.

Reference:

Kroes 2007, cat. no. 360, 361 & S17

Collectie Keramiekmuseum Princessehof

Ottema-Kingma Stichting

Price: Sold.

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2012634

Japanese Kakiemon / Japanese Kakiemon-style wares - Japanese Kakiemon-style

Object 2012634

Saucer

Japan

1670-1690

Height 22 mm (0.87 inch), diameter of rim 115 mm (4.53 inch), diameter of footring 64 mm or (2.52 inch), weight 102 grams (3.60 ounce (oz.)) 

Saucer on footring, short flat rim with slightly upturned edge. Decorated in with a flowering bamboo tree growing from brushwood fences and a leaping tiger. The reverse is undecorated. 

This saucer is representative of a group of pieces without a nigoshide body. The quality of their porcelain bodies, with some impurities or kiln-grit on the front and back, and decoration is mediocre. Such pieces were not made by the Kakiemon kiln, but by contemporary competitors. (Jörg 2003/1, p.75, cat. 62 & p.76 cat. 63)

Bamboo (take)

Bamboo is evergreen, and pliable, yet very strong. It is quick to recover after a heavy snowfall or a storm. In Japan, these qualities have led to its representation of indomitability, and the posture that a wise person should adopt, particularly in times of adversity. On Kalkiemon, bamboo has the connotation primarily in combination with Prunus mume and pine. (Fitski 2011, p.148)

Brushwood fence (shibagaki)

This fence, made up of bundles of twigs tied together, is frequently combined with a bamboo trellis, an enlarged branch of flowering tree peony, and a shishi. It is a motif that occurs frequently on Kakiemon, with or without these companions, and one which evidently appealed greatly to the European consumer, given the fact that it is often seen on European imitations of Kakiemon. (Fitski 2011, p.148)

Tiger (tora)

In China, the White Tiger had long represented the West in the concept of the four wind directions. As such it was paired as a female element with the dragon, which stood for the East and male. This mythical animal should not, however, be hastily connected with depictions of the tiger as an animal. In Japan it was primarily popular from the 16th century as a subject of wall decoration in residences of the warrior class and represented power and courage. Its depiction on Kakiemon shows similarities to paintings and portrays one of the fixed themes of tiger painting: 'Tiger Emerging from the Woods'. The motif known as Tiger and bamboo is probably also traceable to this source, as the tiger emerges from the bamboo forest. There are also mould-cast figures of tigers. (Fitski 2011, p.160)

For a similarly painted tiger on a Kakiemon decorated dish, please see:

• Kakiemon Porcelain. A Handbook, (M. Fitski, Leiden / Amsterdam, 2011), p.71-100, cat. 71.

Condition: Some wear to the decoration.

References:

Jörg 2003/1, cat. 62 & 63

Fitski 2011, p.148, p.160 & cat. 71

Price: Sold.

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2012636

Japanese Tea, Coffee and Chocolate wares 18th Century

Object 2012636

Tea bowl

Japan

1700-1720

Height 42 mm (1.65 inch), diameter of rim 72 mm (2.83 inch), diameter of footring 33 mm (1.30 inch), weight 47 grams (1.66 ounce (oz.))

Tea bowl on footring, slightly flaring rim. Imari, decorated in underglaze blue, black, green and gray, translucent enamel colours, iron-red and gold. On the outside a fence near rockwork with various flowering plants, in the background a pavilion with trees and banners. On the footring two concentric circles, on the bottom a single flower spray in a doubble concentric circle. Marked on the base with the Chinese four-character mark featuring zhi. (Davison 1994, p.87)

Condition: A firing flaw and a short hairline to the rim.

Reference:

Davison 1994, p.87

Price: € 199 Currency Converter

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2012362

Chine de commande - Armorial / Pseudo-Armorial wares 1700-1800 - Armorial - Dutch

Object 2012632

Part of a coffee and tea service of nineteen pieces; a coffee pot, a stand, a slop bowl, four tea bowls, four coffee cups, two tea bowl saucers and six coffee cup saucers.

China

c.1765-1770

Height of coffee pot with cover 255 mm (10.04 inch), height without cover 190 mm (7.48 inch), diameter rim 75 mm (2.95 inch), diameter footring 122 mm (4.80 inch), diameter handle to spout 230 mm (9.06 inch), weight including cover 1,048 grams (36.97 ounce (oz.)), weight cover 129 grams (4.55 ounce (oz.))

Height of coffee pot stand 27 mm (1.06 inch), dimensions rim 230 mm (9.06 inch) x 180 mm (7.09 inch), weight 340 grams (11.99 ounce (oz.))

Height of slop bowl 77 mm (3.03 inch), diameter of rim 166 mm (6.54 inch), diameter of footring 79 mm (3.11 inch), weight 373 grams (13.16 ounce (oz.))

Tea bowls:

1. Height 44 mm (1.73 inch), diameter of rim 78 mm (3.07 inch), diameter of footring 37 mm (1.46 inch), weight 50 grams (1.76 ounce (oz.))

2. Height 44 mm (1.73 inch), diameter of rim 78 mm (3.07 inch), diameter of footring 36 mm (1.42 inch), weight 62 grams (2.19 ounce (oz.))

3. Height 42 mm (1.65 inch), diameter of rim 76 mm (2.99 inch), diameter of footring 36 mm (1.42 inch), weight 56 grams (1.98 ounce (oz.))

4. Height 42 mm (1.65 inch), diameter of rim 76 mm (2.99 inch), diameter of footring 36 mm (1.42 inch), weight 56 grams (1.98 ounce (oz.))

Tea bowl saucers:

1.Height 32 mm (1.26 inch), diameter of rim 122 mm (4.80 inch), diameter of footring 66 mm (2.60 inch), weight 106 grams (3.74 ounce (oz.))

2.Height 31 mm (1.22 inch), diameter of rim 124 mm (4.88 inch), diameter of footring 66 mm (2.60 inch), weight 112 grams (3.95 ounce (oz.))

Coffee cup saucers:

1.Height 32 mm (1.26 inch), diameter of rim 139 mm (5.47 inch), diameter of footring 74 mm (2.91 inch), weight 118 grams (4.16 ounce (oz.))

2.Height 32 mm (1.26 inch), diameter of rim 140 mm (5.51 inch), diameter of footring 75 mm (2.95 inch), weight 115 grams (4.06 ounce (oz.))

3.Height 31 mm (1.22 inch), diameter of rim 137 mm (5.39 inch), diameter of footring 72 mm (2.83 inch), weight 117 grams (4.13 ounce (oz.))

4.Height 32 mm (1.26 inch), diameter of rim 136 mm (5.35 inch), diameter of footring 80 mm (3.15 inch), weight 128 grams (4.52 ounce (oz.))

5.Height 32 mm (1.26 inch), diameter of rim 136 mm (5.35 inch), diameter of footring 75 mm (2.95 inch), weight 115 grams (4.06 ounce (oz.))

6.Height 31 mm (1.22 inch), diameter of rim 140 mm (5.51 inch), diameter of footring 75 mm (2.95 inch), weight 117 grams (4.13 ounce (oz.))

Coffe cups:

1.Height 65 mm (2.56 inch), diameter of rim 66 mm (2.60 inch), diameter of footring 35 mm (1.38 inch), weight 93 grams (3.28 ounce (oz.))

2.Height 66 mm (2.60 inch), diameter of rim 65 mm (2.56 inch), diameter of footring 34 mm (1.34 inch), weight 100 grams (3.53 ounce (oz.))

3.Height 65 mm (2.56 inch), diameter of rim 66 mm (2.60 inch), diameter of footring 35 mm (1.38 inch), weight 107 grams (3.77 ounce (oz.))

4.Height 67 mm (2.64 inch), diameter of rim 65 mm (2.65 inch), diameter of footring 35 mm (1.38 inch), weight 89 grams (3.14 ounce (oz.))

Part of a coffee and tea service of nineteen pieces. All objects decorated in various overglaze enamels, iron-red, black and gold with the arms of Romswinckel in the center, on a red background three gold concentric circles; the crest a gold coronet surmounted by three similar gold circles with three pink plumes above. Round the rims garlands with broad bands of pink and green flowering leaves.

The coat of arms show: on a red background three gold concentric circles; the crest a gold coronet surmounted by three similar gold circles with three pink plumes above.

These are the arms of Romswinckel from the Cleves district in Germany, with younger branches in Amsterdam, Leiden and the East Indies. They were borne this way as early as 1588 by Mathias Romswinckel as richter or judge of Goch, Germany.

About 1778-1782 the Romswinckel family also had an armorial service made of Loosdrecht porcelain of which a plate with a scalloped rim is known. The armorials of the two Chinese services I & II are very similar, with only small differences in the mantling. However, the arms on the Loosdrecht plate are rather different: the shield having a coronet above and being surrounded by garlands and branches tied by a ribbon beneath.

Romswinckel I Chinese tea service c.1765-1770, the only known pieces of this tea service.

(Image reproduced from: Chinese Armorial Porcelain for the Dutch Market, Chinese Porcelain with Coats of Arms of Dutch Families, (J. Kroes, Waanders Publishers, Zwolle, 2007), p.343, cat.no. 262. (copyright in data and images is held by the publisher or by their respective licensors: all rights reserved))

The Reverend Ds. Johannes Romswinckel (1614-1661) moved from Müllheim, Germany to Holland becomming the founder of the Dutch Romswinckel branch. Members of this family in both leiden and Amsterdam rose to senior positions. It is most likely that someone within the Leiden branch commissioned this service. Nicolaas Romswinckel (Archangel 1707: Leiden 1755), solicitor and from 1742 councillor of Leiden, married in 1732 Catharina Marcus (1713-1775). They had 14 children of whom at least three sons could have ordered this porcelain in the late 1760s: Nicolaas Abraham (1733), Matthijs (1741) and Joost (1745). Nicolaas himself was a solicitor in Leiden and joined the city council in 1742, he was also alderman for a couple of years from 1749.

His eldest son Nicolaas Abraham Romswinckel (born Leiden, 10 January 1733; Died Leiden 10 October 1823) studied law at Leiden University graduating in 1755. He was a solicitor in Leiden and Haarlem and from 1773 sheriff and secretary of Nieuwerveen and Zevenhoven, two villages near Leiden. He married twice, first on 11 january 1761 to Johanna Dorothea Sellius (1736-1780) and in 1782 to Nicasia Johanna Kip (died 1797). One of his sons was Joost Carel Romswinckel (Haarlem 1772; Batavia 1846) who had a remaarkable career in the East Indies, startinmg about 1795 as assitent and in 1808 being appointed extraordinary councillor of the Indies. He married in 1801 a girl from a prominent family in the Dutch East Indies, Catharina Wilhelmina van Stockum (1761-1806), who was the daughter of the councillor of the Indies Hendrik van Stockum, and Catharina Elisabeth Romswinckel. They ordered an armorial service in the late 18th century. Catharina Elisabeth (1744-1785) was the daughter of Matthijs Romswinckel( 1702-1750), Nicolaas Senior's brother and thus these brothers were cousins. Matthijs had been in Batavia since 1741, first as junior merchant and from 1745 as vendumeester or auctioneer.

The second son, Matthijs Romswinckel (born Leiden, 28 february 1741; died Amsterdam, 7 March 1796) settled in Amsterdam after 1761, where he became bookkeeper of the stadsimpost, a local tax (1761-1767) trustee of the St. Pietergasthuis (1768) and director of the VOC Chamber Amsterdam 1786. He never married.

Although still a rather young when this porcelain was made, the third son could also have ordered this service and the Lossdrecht set later. This was Joost Romswinckel (born Leiden, 20 december 1745; died The Hague, 28 May 1824) who studied law at Utrecht Universityand started his career in Leiden as a soliciter in 1770. He had been a captain of the citizn guard there from 1767 (until 1773). In 1771 he entered the city council as vroedschap or councillor until 1787 and as alderman (1781-1782, 1787). He was also a delegate of the States General from 1784until 1786 and commissioner of the Bank van Lening or pawnbroker's shop (1775-1781). he married twice, first in 1781 Gerardina Barbara Beeldemaker (1755-1783), who was the widow of Jan van der Poorten, after het death in 1887 Henriette Geertuij Vester (1760-1829). He had ten children, two from his first en eight by his second wife. By 1783 Joost was a wealthy man. After the death of his first wife that year an inventory was made with details about his fortune which comprised debentures and shares woth more than HFL 49,273, together with jewellery, furniture and so on, in all totalling more than HFL 88,843. One quarter, over HFL 22,200, was left over to Joost. There was also a large library part of which, after 1807, was purchased by the Koninklijke Bibliotheek or Royal Library in The Hague for HFL 50,000.

This tea bowl and saucer are from the second Chinese service with the Romswinckel arms dating to the same period as the first service (1765-1770) of which two other saucers part of a tea and coffee service of which four other pieces are known: a teapot, a coffee pot, a sugar bowl and a lobbed dish. The armorial design is almost identical to that of the first Romswinckel service, however, the mantling is different showing in this case garlands and some scrollwork in pink, green and gold enamels.

The service must have been made in teh second half of the 1760s about the same time as the first Romswinckel service. In the entry for that service it is noted that several people coul have commissioned this service, in particular in the Leiden branch the three brothers Nicolaas Abraham (1733-1823), Matthijs (1741-1796) or Joost Romswinckel (1745-1824)

For the covered sugar bowl with a small saucer from thre Romswinckel I tea service (1765-1770),

please see:

• Chinese Ceramics in the Collection of the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam. The Ming and Qing Dynasties, (C.J.A. Jörg in collaboration with J. van Campen, London, 1997), p.312 cat. 370.
• Chinese Armorial Porcelain for the Dutch Market, Chinese Porcelain with Coats of Arms of Dutch Families, (J. Kroes, Waanders Publishers, Zwolle, 2007), pp.343-344, cat.no. 262. 

For a saucer from thre Romswinckel II tea and coffee service (1765-1770), please see:

• Chinese Armorial Porcelain for the Dutch Market, Chinese Porcelain with Coats of Arms of Dutch Families, (J. Kroes, Waanders Publishers, Zwolle, 2007), p.373, cat.no. 291. 

About 1778-1782 the Romswinckel family also had an armorial service made of Loosdrecht porcelain of which a plate with a scalloped rim is known. 

The Romswinckel family armorial service plate with the scalloped rim, made of Loosdrecht porcelain.

(Image reproduced from: Museum De Lakenhal Leiden (copyright in data and images is held by the publisher or by their respective licensors: all rights reserved))

Conditions: See under more pictures >>.

Reference:

Jörg & Van Campen 1997, cat. 370

Kroes 2007, cat.no. 262 & cat.no. 291

Museum De Lakenhal Leiden

Price: Sold.

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2012630

Japanese Kakiemon / Japanese Kakiemon-style wares - Japanese Kakiemon

Object 2012630

Bowl

Japan (Kiln: probably Nangawara)

c.1700

Height 84 mm (3.31 inch), diameter of rim 168 mm (6.61 inch), diameter of footring 73 mm (2.87 inch), weight 430 grams (15.17 ounce (oz.))

Bowl on footring, spreading sides, with everted scalloped rim. On the base a single spur-mark. Decorated in underglaze blue with a continuous scene of a fenced garden with Chinese figures, prunus trees and rocks. Two figures are seated at a table, while a third is walking toward them holding a basket. On the other side two standing figures, one holding a fan. Over the scene curling clouds. In the centre a medallion with a European landscape, showing a farmer leading a cow, two European figures, a pole, a building on hills, a sail and houses. Around the inside rim a karakusa 唐草 (foliate) scrolls border. A double blue line around the foot. Brown edge. Marked on the base with a fuku 福 (good fortune) mark in a circle. (SKD Online collection, PO. 1929.)

The design on this bowl has traditionally been called 'Deshima' or 'Scheveningen'. This design was highly popular in The Netherlands, and possibly also in Japan as a kind of Western exoticism. It first appeared, in underglaze blue, on Japanese dishes of the late 17^th century.

It certainly does not depict the Dutch factory in Deshima (Nagasaki), a fan-shaped, man-made island in Japan to which Westerners were restricted between 1641 and 1862. Scheveningen, a fishermen´s village on the Dutch coast near The Hague seems a more appropriate name. In fact 47 'Scheveningen' plates were already mentioned in the 1778 sale catalogue of the porcelain shop of Martha Raap in Amsterdam, clearly indicating this type. Much research was done to find the print that was used as a model, but non with this view have yet come to light. it is therefore possible that another source was used, maybe a plate or dish in the so-called Frijtom style. Frederick van Frijtom (c.1632-1702) was a Delft faience painter who specialised in plates, dishes, and plaques with landscapes in blue. His work is characterised by wide blank rims on plates and dishes, detailed painting of trees and landscapes and a specific way of drawing clouds. (Jörg 2003/1) The existence of a Scheveningen Japanese plate in precisely this style makes it plausible that at some point a Delft example by Frijtom was used. (Terwee 1989)

Several variations of the ´Scheveningen decoration´ design are known, in both Japanese and – later - Chinese porcelain. These were mostly dishes, but elements of the design were also used on bowls and cups. Some copies are barely recognisable.

A larger (228 mm (8.69 inch)), identically shaped and decorated bowl is in the collection of Augustus the Strong in Dresden and registered under the number P.O. (Porzellan Ostasien) 1929. In the Palace Invertory 1721 four identical bowls are mentioned under the Inventory entry number N 376. In the Inventory of 1779 three bowl are mentioned.

Source: Palace Inventory 1721 Entry: Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden, Inventory no. 324. Inventorisation of the Palais in Alt-Dresden. In the year 1721. [Addenda], Blue-and-white Indian, Ch. I. Dresden 1721I, pag. 805:. (SKD Online collection, PO. 1929)

German:

English:

"376. 4 fine broad-ribbed slop bowls with offset rims dressed in brown, 4 in. deep, 9¼ in. in diam."

(SKD Online collection, PO. 1929) this bowl is not included in this sale/offer.

The 'Scheveningen' motif has been altered, but the compositional elements are still easily recognisable. Rocks and figures create a strong diagonal that is absent in earlier versions. An enamelled Meissen bowl of c.1730 in the British Museum closely copies this shape and design, including the diagonal composition.

For this Meissen bowl, please see:

• Porcelain for Palaces. The Fashion for Japan in Europe 1650-1750, (J. Ayers, O. Impey & J.V.G. Mallet, Oriental Ceramic Society & The British Museum, London 1990), p.264, cat. 301.

An interesting example in the collection of the Groninger Museum: a blank Chinese porcelain dish overdecorated in Delft (the Netherlands) c.1700-1730. The circle was thus made complete, the design having travelled from Delft to Japan and then back to Delft. (Jörg 2003/1, cat. 307a)

For this Delft variant, please see:

• Fine & Curious: Japanese Export Porcelain in Dutch Collections, (C.J.A. Jörg, Hotei Publishing, Amsterdam 2003), p.241, cat. 307a. 

In the cargo of the Ca Mau shipwreck, c.1725 a total of 80 dishes decorated with the Chine de commande 'Scheveningen decoration' were found. As we know the original designs were traditionally made in Japan for the Dutch. These dishes were so popular that Chinese potters copied them in order to compete with the Japanese. Such copies were already known, but the occurrence in the Ca Mau made it likely that these dishes, and therefore most of the porcelain cargo, were destined for Batavia because only the Dutch would appreciate such specific Chine de commande pieces. (Amsterdam 2007, p.17, lot 223-233 & p.179)

The Kyushu Ceramic Museum, Arita, dates this specific mark to 1670-80, which seems rather early. Fitski states that the character of this mark has not been identified. It occurs on Nangawara pieces that date from 1670 to 1700. For this mark please see:

• The Shibata Collection Part V, (The Kyushu Ceramic Museum, Kyushu, 1997), p.253, cat. 16.
• Kakiemon Porcelain. A Handbook. (M. Fitski, Leiden University Press, Leiden & Rijksmuseum Amsterdam, 2011), p.165. 

Condition: A tiny fleabite to the rim.

References:

Terwee 1989

Ayers, Impey & Mallet 1990, cat. 33

Kyushu 1991, cat. 503

Jörg & Van Campen 1997, cat.307a & cat. 312

Kyushu 1997, 9.253, cat. 16 

Jörg 2003/1, cat. 312

Kyushu 2003, cat. 2167

Amsterdam 2007, p.17, lot 223-233 & p.179

Fitski 2011, p.165

SKD Online collection, PO. 1929

Price: Sold.

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2012631

Red & Gold / Rouge-de-Fer 1690-1730 - Tea, Coffee and Chocolate wares

Object 2012631

Teapot

China

1700-1720

Height with cover 149 mm (5.87 inch), height without cover 117 mm (4.61 inch), diameter handle to spout 175 mm (6.88 inch), diameter of mouthrim 52 mm (2.05 inch), diameter of footring 50 mm (1.97 inch), weight including cover 379 grams (13.37 ounce (oz.)), weight cover 34 grams (1.20 ounce (oz.))

Egg-shaped teapot on a footring. Straight spout, curved C-shaped handle, domed pierced cover with a pointed knob. Decorated in 'Red & Gold' / 'Rouge-de-fer' with iron-red and gold on the glaze between two diaper-pattern borders in underglaze blue, with on either side of the body a flowering chrysanthemum and prunus, their flower buds in low relief. On the handle and spout florets between scrolls. The cover is decorated en suite.

Only grown in China and Japan during the 17th Century, tea became known in the Netherlands early because the Dutch East India Company (VOC) shipped small quantities home. Its use as a beverage was established slowly, and was probably started by retired VOC employees who had become accustomed to drinking tea in the East. At a tea party, the expensive beverage was served in small teapots, one for each guest, filled with the leaves of the type he or she preferred. The tea was poured into small cups, while the teapot was refilled with hot water from a metal or sometimes ceramic kettle. The small quantity of famille verte teapots still abound reflects the demand in Europe at the time. Elaborately decorated, they must have been regarded as luxury wares for the upper classes. (Jörg 2011/2, p.131)

For an earlier sold, identically, shaped, sized and decorated teapot, please see:

• Sold Ceramics - Sold Red & Gold / Rouge-de-Fer 1690-1730 - Tea, Coffee and Chocolate wares - Page 1 - Object 2012604.

Condition: Some firing flaws on the handle and knob and two fleabites to tip of the knob,

Reference:

Jörg 2011/2, p.131

Price: Sold.

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2011740

Japanese Imari 1690-1800 - 'Gold' Imari

Object 2011741

Saucer

Japan

1700-1730

Height of saucer 16 mm (0.63 inch), diameter of rim 77 mm (3.03 inch), diameter of footring 44 mm or (1.73 inch), weight 21 grams (0.74 ounce (oz.))

Saucer on footrings, slightly everted rim. 'Gold' Imari, decorated in gold, iron-red and a light-pinkish gold wash with a central flower spray round the rim a silkworm and stripes pattern border. The reverse is undecorated.

Miniature porcelain was used to decorate a room or mantelshelf as part of a porcelain ensemble or was intended to be put into a porcelain cabinet. Japanese miniature red and gold Imari pieces can also be found as part of doll’s houses, which showed representations of actual rooms. Pardue states that seventeenth-century Dutch and eighteenth-century British parents wanted their children to prosper and be refined members of polite society. The tea wares and other miniature ceramics, may have been used by or casual play by the young or curiosities for adult amusement, but when viewed through the lens of material culture, they also served as a means through which parents taught their children to succeed in an adult world and carry themselves with proper refinement in polite society. Finally, it has also been suggested that these small sized teacups and saucers were used for the tasting and testing of various sorts of precious tea at a shop. (Jörg 2003/1, p.205 cat. 264), (Pardue 2008, XX)

Condition: Perfect.

References

Jörg 2003/1, cat. 264

Pardue 2008, XX

Price: € 99 Currency Converter

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2012628

Chine de commande - Armorial / Pseudo-Armorial wares 1700-1800 - Armorial - Dutch

Object 2012628

Saucer

China

1750-1760

Height including cover 129 mm (5.07 inch), height excluding cover 98 mm (3.85 inch), diameter 74 mm (2.91 inch), diameter mouthrim 35 mm (1.38 inch), diameter of footring 40 mm (1.57 inch), weight with cover 171 grams (6.03 ounce (oz.)), weight cover 35 grams (1.23 ounce (oz.))

Tea caddy of ovoid form on footring, domed cover (not matching) with a pointed knob. Applied scroll work at the spreading foot. Decorated on two sides in encre de Chine (grisaille), iron-red, gold and blue enamel with a yet unknown coat of arms: the arms are quarterly, 1. and 4. a pegasus, 2. and 3. two bars. The crest a pegasus on top of coronet. The mantling comprise symmetrical scrollwork and ropes of pearls in European style. On the shoulder strapwork in Du Paquier style. 

A tea service of which15 pieces were sold at Sotheby's Amsterdam in 1994 comprising a teapot, milk jug, sugar bowl with cover, a teapot stand, a saucer dish, five tea bowls and five saucers. In addition to the illustrated saucer, one other turned up in a private collection and two milk jugs of h. 13.3 cm were sold at Christie's London in 1999. The arms have been incorrectly attributed to the Stapert family from Friesland. They are probably the arms of a Frisian or East Frisian family: in the Amsterdam 1994 sale two other lots in the same section - and possibly from the same collection or collector - comprised porcelain with Frisian and East Frisian arms, such as De Pottere and Van Wingene. (Kroes 2007, pp.532-533) 

For this specific saucer, please see:

• Sold Ceramics - Sold Chine de commande - Armorial / Pseudo-Armorial wares 1700-1800 - Armorial - Dutch - Page 1 - Object 2012454.

• Chinese Armorial Porcelain for the Dutch Market, Chinese Porcelain with Coats of Arms of Dutch Families, (J. Kroes, Waanders Publishers, Zwolle, 2007), p.532, cat. no. S17.

(Reproduced from Chinese Armorial Porcelain for the Dutch Market, Chinese Porcelain with Coats of Arms of Dutch Families, (J. Kroes, Waanders Publishers, Zwolle, 2007), pp.532-533, cat. no. S17.)

Condition: Three hairlines to the body, issuing from one spot, circling the entire body. The nonmatching cover with some frits to the underside of the rim.

Reference:

Kroes 2007, cat. no. S17  

Price: Sold.

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