Chinese Export Famille Rose Porcelain Vases, circa 1820. Photo courtesy M.S. Rau Antiques.
25" high. Price: $48,850
This fine pair of stunning Chinese export porcelain urns is decorated in the Famille Rose style. Developed as export items to please European consumer's ever increasing desire for Chinese porcelain, the Famille Rose decorative style was initially developed in the 1720s, when European tastes were transitioning from Baroque to Rococo. The style welcomed the addition of pinks and purples to the already existing ouevre of Famille Verte, Jaune and Noire. These urns are an exceptional example of an early 19th century pair, octagonal in shape with fitted lids with a seated woman finial. Each is decorated in famille rose and gilt with panels of figures on the necks and baluster bodies. The borders of the panels feature a botanical scene of butterflies, luscious pink peonies and delightfully delicate white chrysanthemums on a gilt ground.
The urns are decorated with large panels depicting court scenes dealing with mercantile and legal transactions. Each side of the neck also has a cartouche depicting figures. The sides are enameled with medallions of scenes depicting exotic birds and peacocks in a peony garden and feature a pair of appliqued gilt handles of Foo Lions.
Famille Rose porcelain decorative arts are some of the most coveted of the Chinese Export Porcelain styles. Possibly because of the delightful symmetry, muted hues of carmine, rose pink or lavender and eloquent Rococo inspired design. These urns are evidence of the vibrant trade history between Europe and China and demonstrate how Europe significantly influenced the Chinese decorative arts.
M.S. Rau Antiques. http://www.rauantiques.com/