Rare Worcester Chinoiserie Tea Cup & Saucer, 1765-70

• Chinoiserie - Furniture and decorative items decorated in imitation of a Western interpretation of the Chinese style. The Chinoiserie style first became popular in the late 17th century, though there were frequent revivals, notably by Chippendale (hence 'Chinese Chippendale') during the Regency period, and the Anglo-Japanese style in the second half of the 19th century.
  
  The ubiquitous 'willow pattern' is the most common 'Chinese' theme used in porcelain, while on furniture the Chinoiserie style usually has black or red painted and lacquered decoration, though the hallmark of the furniture style is the use of fretwork in geometrical patterns, pagodas and other decorative forms.
  
  Japonaiseries, as the name implies, are motifs in imitation of the Japanese taste.
  
  See also "Chinese Chippendale".
• Circa - A Latin term meaning 'about', often used in the antique trade to give an approximate date for the piece, usually considered to be five years on either side of the circa year. Thus, circa 1900 means the piece was made about 1900, probably between 1895 and 1905. The expression is sometimes abbreviated to c.1900.
• 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.

This item has been included into following indexes:

• Worcester (England), item types - other items 521
• Worcester (England), patterns
  • Mandarin pattern 6
  • Red Bull pattern 1