Famille Rose Soup Tureen with Courtly Gathering

This late 19th century covered jar takes its rounded shape from serving tureens used to serve soups and stews. Contrasted by a crisp white field, the lid and sides are intricately decorated with scenes of a Ming-dynasty courtly gathering. Surrounded by noblemen and their attendants, two young boys approach a seated elderly official to bestow an offering. The lively scene is rendered in a palette of soft blues, greens, and purples and marked by traces of the original gilt pigmentation.