Two Chinese miniature Jars or Vases, decorated in England, circa 1800-20
This near pair of miniature porcelain jars (jarlets) or vases likely date from the Kangxi period (1661-1722). The finish to the bases and the cut top rims suggests they were made in Fujian province, rather than Jingdezhen. The underglaze blue decoration is composed of simple flower heads and trailing foliage. Some time between 1800 and 1820, the jars were overdecorated (clobbered), probably in London, with richly coloured enamels and gilding. The original Chinese underglaze decoration remains, although it has been greatly enhanced with the addition of colourful flowers and foliage. English decoration on this particular vessel form is especially rare.
This rich decoration was particularly favoured by the Regency elite during the first two decades of the 19th century. At this time, the Prince Regent – later King George IV – was cultivating a vogue for the exotic orient with flamboyant projects such as the Royal Pavilion at Brighton.
Condition: The enamel and gilt decoration is in excellent order, with very little wear. Both vases exhibit typical minor potting and firing anomalies associated with the period. Vase 1: There is a chip to the rim, and a small glaze flaw to the orange line within the rim. This flaw almost certainly occurred before the enamel decoration was added. There is a small, shallow chip to the underside of the base, and a small graze to one of the green enamel leaves. No cracks or restoration. Vase 2: There is chip to the rim of this slightly larger vase, and a tiny glaze flake to the rim. No cracks or restoration.
Dimensions: Height approximately 4.5 cm
With thanks to Robert McPherson for his invaluable insight.
European Decoration on Oriental Porcelain 1700-1830, Helen Espir (Jorge Welsh Books, 2005).
The Watney Collection of Chinese Porcelain Decorated in Holland and England (Bonhams sale catalogue, 7 November 2003).
Ref. For similar decoration, see The Atrocious Unsworth – Chinese blue and white porcelain clobbered in London in the 19th century (Helen Espir, English Ceramic Circle Transactions, Volume 29, 2018).