En-Grisaille Late Yongzheng / early Qianlong Plate

En-Grisaille Late Yongzheng / early Qianlong Plate.

Encre de chine or en grisaille plate made at the end of the reign of the Emperor Yongzheng or the start of Qianlong's reign was made for export to Europe.  Although painted in various shades and lines of grey and black it is heightened with gilt which was also applied in China.

The intricate decoration to the centre is expertly painted using the lines and shading that would have been copied from the black and white etchings or prints carried by the early merchants to China. The painting possibly shows a scene from Susanna and the Elders although it is difficult to be certain.

The cavetto is painted with a European style border similar to that found on a book plate. the edge between the centre and the cavetto is painted in gilt with a dagger shaped border.

The plate would have had at least three firings before being completed and this final firing has caused a small piece of grit to become loose and leave the body despite having been painted on.  This tiny bit to the side of the centre has been wonderfully restored so it is all but invisible.  I do have the original photo to show the firing flaw.

To read more about this type of decoration see  cathy-hunt.co.uk/jesuit-influence-on-porcelain-en-grisaille-decoration.

Dimensions

This object is eligible for a Certificate of BADA Provenance

Condition report

Stock number