From the kilns of Jingdezhen to drawing rooms across Europe, Chinese porcelain has travelled far – geographically, culturally and artistically. In our upcoming Country House Sale, a richly varied collection of Chinese ceramics traces that journey across centuries, dynasties, and design traditions. These works bear witness to a porcelain tradition that is as technically accomplished as it is visually captivating – one that remains timeless in its appeal.
Porcelain has long held a special status in Chinese culture, celebrated for its purity, resilience, and artistry. During the Qing dynasty – especially under emperors like Kangxi, Qianlong, and Daoguang – potters developed ever more refined techniques, creating pieces for both imperial use and export to the West. The decorative language of this period was rich with symbolism: flowers, scholars, sages, mythological figures, and auspicious animals all found expression in the glowing enamel colours of famille verte and famille rose wares.
Among the many examples in the sale, a finely painted famille verte dish depicts the Daoist philosopher Laozi riding an ox and greeting a bowing figure, an image full of cultural resonance and philosophical symbolism (Lot 6102, pictured below left). Scenes like this reflect the Qing dynasty's embrace of traditional values and classical imagery, often painted in vibrant enamels on white porcelain.