Chinese Late 18th/Early 19th C Provincial Ware Plate with crab design

Fun, fanciful, abstract design of crabs on this early handmade and hand painted porcelain dish.

 

The saucer has a shallow rise to the rim. It is porcelain and has been quickly and expertly painted with a design of crabs and water weeds around a central character. The cobalt used is a deep blue with spots of almost black. There is a shallow foot that is cut and unglazed. The base is glazed and you can see the potter’s ring marks under the glaze. The base glaze has a bluish tint and feels thin and oh so smooth. It has a shiny appearance.

 

Provenance: This dish belonged to Portland Art Museum and was deaccessioned. The base has a tag with the museum’s inventory number (2012.91.27) on it.

 

6 ¾” (17.1 cm) diameter x 1 ¼” (3.2 cm) tall. Weighs 8.5 oz (240 g)

 

There are no cracks, chips, or breaks. The dish rings true. There is wear to the surface especially in the central well.  The dish still looks fresh and bright. There are kiln flaws like pin holes, bumps, and black spots.

 

An old, fun and abstract dish from approximately the Qianlong Period to add to your collection or give substance and character to your décor.