Famille Rose Bowl 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 famille rose bowl dates to the mid-19th century and is beautifully decorated with precious scholars' objects and auspicious symbols. The base of the bowl is painted with a grandiose peacock, a symbol of beauty and dignity. Throughout the Ming and Qing dynasties, the bird's plumage was used to designate official rank. The combination of motifs would have made this bowl a fitting gift for a newly appointed scholar-official. Today, the bowl is a delightful gift for the dignified person in your life.

From the collection of Frances and Gary Comer.