Famille Rose Dish with Scholars' Objects

During the 18th century, Europeans provided an eager market for Chinese export porcelain, especially the colorful and fanciful ware known as “famille rose.” Named for a palette of opaque overglaze enamels that favored roses and pinks, famille rose porcelain ware was crafted with the same technical virtuosity as imperial porcelain but designed for Western tastes.

This shallow porcelain bowl charms with its vibrant famille rose decoration of precious scholars' objects and Buddhist symbols. Sometimes referred to as the "hundred treasures" motif, the array of objects includes ancient ritual bronzes, bowls laden with offerings, handscrolls, fine porcelains, and lotus blossoms. Enclosed by a turquoise border of peonies and scrollwork, the colorful decoration brightens its surroundings and looks lovely as a centerpiece or catch-all dish.