A very large Chinese cloisonne enamel dragon charger, 19th…
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A very large Chinese cloisonne enamel dragon charger, 19th century, decorated with vibrant 'Doucai' enamels to the interior of the plate and depicting the auspicious nine dragons. A principle Imperial five-clawed yellow dragon is surrounded by another eight multi-coloured dragons chasing one another through scrolling waves in tones of blue with white and green sprays. Surrounded by a vivid ruyi-patterned border. The reverse of the charger with incised design and covered in a lovely turquoise enamel, 84 cm diameter. Catalogue note: nine is a very auspicious number in Chinese history, as it is the largest single digit and is often associated with the emperor.

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  • Incised - A record of a name, date or inscription, or a decoration scratched into a surface, usually of a glass or ceramic item with a blunt instrument to make a coarse indentation. Compare with engraving where the surface is cut with a sharp instrument such as a metal needle or rotating tool to achieve a fine indentation.
  • Charger - A charger is a type of large plate, typically used as a decorative base for smaller plates or bowls. They are often used in formal settings, such as at a banquet or a special occasion.

    The history of chargers can be traced back to medieval times, when they were used as a base for serving dishes in banquet settings. They were typically made of metal, such as silver or pewter, and were highly decorative, often featuring intricate engravings or designs.

    During the Renaissance period, chargers began to be made of porcelain, and their designs became more ornate. They were often used in the homes of the wealthy and were considered a symbol of wealth and status.

    In the 18th and 19th centuries, chargers were produced in great numbers by European porcelain manufacturers, and they were exported to America and other parts of the world. They were highly sought after by the upper class and were often used as a decorative element in formal table settings.

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