Chinese Export Blue and White Mandarin Palette Covered Vases
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A pair of Chinese export blue and white Mandarin palette covered vases, late 18th century, the pair of slender baluster covered vases or jars with seated Buddhist lion-form finials, enameled front and back with reserves depicting maidens and children at leisure pursuits in a garden pavilion overlooking a lake, surrounded by underglaze blue scrolls and ruyi borders accented with gilt and flower head; both with repairs, one with loss to finial. Height 31 cm
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- Finial - An architectural decoration, found on the upper parts of of an object. On furniture they are usually found on pediments, canopies and shelf supports. On smaller ceramic or silver items, such as spoons, they may decorate the top of the item itself, or the lid or cover where they provide a useful handle for removal.
Finials have a variety of shapes and forms. They may be urn-shaped, baluster shaped round or spiral, but usually taper into an upper point. Many real life shapes may also be used as finials, such as pineapples, berries, pinecones, buds, lotus and acorns. Sometimes animals such as a lion are depicted, or fish and dolphins. - Mandarin Palette - The Mandarin palette is a decorative style used to decorate Chinese export porcelain, which was produced in China specifically for export to Europe and other parts of the world from the 16th to the 19th century. The Mandarin palette is characterized by a bright and colourful design featuring various figures, landscapes, and ornamental motifs.
The Mandarin palette was first used during the reign of the Kangxi Emperor (1662-1722) in the Qing dynasty. It was named after the Mandarin officials who were depicted in the designs, wearing their distinctive robes and hats. The palette was popular among European collectors and was often used to decorate tea services, vases, and other decorative objects.
The Mandarin palette was made up of a limited number of colours, typically blue, green, pink, and gold. The designs often featured figures in a garden setting, surrounded by trees, rocks, and pavilions. Some of the most popular motifs included dragons, birds, flowers, and auspicious symbols, such as bats and peaches.
The Mandarin palette remained popular throughout the Qing dynasty and was used to decorate a wide range of Chinese export porcelain. It continued to be popular among European collectors into the 19th century, and its influence can be seen in the work of many European ceramic artists of the time.