Antique Gilded Yongzheng/Qianlong Tea Bowl butterflies Chinese China Porcelain

Out of stock

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Condition Report: Teacup: A fleabite and a frit to the rim. Saucer: Some wear to the decoration. Size 55-98mm diameter, 20-33mm high

Teacup and saucer

China

1730-1735

Small teacup and saucer on footring, spreading sides and everted rims. Polychrome decorated in iron-red, black and gold with two butterflies facing each other on the sides three flower sprays. The reverse is undecorated. The teacup is decorated en suite.

The butterfly is the symbol of joy, marital bliss, summer and happiness and a favourite subject in poems and paintings. Sometimes it is called the ‘Chinese Cupid’ after a story about a young student. When he was chasing a butterfly he entered a garden where he met the beautiful daughter of a retired magistrate. He was so taken with her charms that he decided to work hard at his studies and to become a success so that he could ask for her hand in marriage. The butterfly dancing among blossom chalices may symbolize the man who refreshes himself with the love of a woman. (Hartog 1990, p.149 & p.151)

Condition:
Teacup: A fleabite and a frit to the rim.
Saucer: Some wear to the decoration.

Height of teacup 33 mm (1.30 inch), diameter of rim 55 mm (2.17 inch), diameter of footring 22 mm (0.87 inch), weight 26 grams (0.92 ounce (oz.))

Height of saucer 20 mm (0.79 inch), diameter of rim 98 mm (3.86 inch), diameter of footring 54 mm (2.13 inch), weight 43 grams (1.51 ounce (oz.))

Reference:

Hartog 1990, p.149 & p.151

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