This large Chinese blue and white porcelain bowl has the scale and presence that make a major piece of Chinese porcelain particularly exciting.
Measuring 14.5 inches across and 6.25 inches high, it is heavily potted, with substantial weight and a broad, deep form.
The form provides an ideal setting for the beautiful hand-painted decoration on both the exterior and interior.
The exterior is richly decorated with large panels of flowering peonies beneath a scrolling floral border.
The cobalt ranges from deep, saturated blue to softer washes, creating movement and depth across the surface.
Against the light blue-gray porcelain, the darker passages of cobalt have particular richness.
At the center of the bowl, a large hand-painted medallion of flowering peonies joined by a delicately drawn dragonfly is enclosed within double blue lines. Above it, a wide diaper border circles the interior rim, with oval reserves painted with flowering branches.
The bowl’s generous proportions are an important part of its appeal. At 14.5 inches in diameter, it has enough scale to stand alone as a centerpiece on a dining table, console, or large coffee table.
Dating to circa 1860–1870, the bowl survives in excellent antique condition with no chips or hairlines.
A few very small original kiln burns within the interior and tiny iron specks visible on the base are characteristic of period manufacture and remain unobtrusive.
With its generous scale, deep cobalt blue, and extensive hand-painted decoration, this impressive bowl introduces the timeless beauty and decorative presence of Chinese blue and white porcelain into an interior.
Dimensions: Height: 6.25 in. | Diameter: 14.5 in.
Condition: Excellent antique condition. No chips or hairlines. A few very small original kiln burns to the interior from manufacture.
Style: Qing Dynasty
Origin: China
Date: Circa 1860–1870