Chinese Export Porcelain Armorial Tankard 18th Century

Chinese porcelain tankard with an armorial shield and applied twist handles that date to the 18th century.

A cylindrically shaped porcelain body with applied twist handles. At the base of the handle are applied flowers painted with underglaze blue and black and gold overglaze enamels. The painting is fine and delicate. There are cobalt bands at the mouth and base. An armorial shield with drapes, birds, and floral motifs decorates the opposite side from the handle. The base is unglazed and you can see the potter’s wheel marks in the white clay.

There are no maker marks or labels.

MEASUREMENTS
4 ½” (11.4 cm) tall x 3 ½” (8.9 cm) diameter. Weighs 14.9 oz (420 g)

CONDITION
There is wear to the gilt on the shield and at the mouth rim. There are no chips or breaks. There is a hairline crack at the rim that is only visible on the interior surface; it is possibly just a glaze flaw. There are kiln flaws such as black spots, bumps, reserves, and explosions. The glazes look fresh and bright.

An antique that will add a touch of blue and white to a collection or home décor. You can even still use it as a classy beer mug.