Famille Rose Porcelain Plate, Qing Dynasty – Court Scene, Canton Decor, 19th Century

A finely painted 19th-century Chinese export porcelain plate, richly decorated in the famille rose palette with an elaborate courtly scene, attributed to the Guangzhou (Canton) enamel workshops during the Qing dynasty, circa 1850–1880.

This elegant circular porcelain plate, measuring approximately 20.4 cm in diameter, features a vivid interior scene depicting finely robed figures — likely scholars or noblewomen — seated and standing in an architectural garden setting. The composition is rendered in vibrant opaque enamels of pink, turquoise, green, and yellow, enhanced by delicate gilding on the robes and accessories. The scene is framed by an ornate border of peonies, butterflies, bats, and auspicious coin and ribbon motifs, symbolic of wealth and longevity in Chinese decorative culture.

The piece was almost certainly produced at the kilns of Jingdezhen, then enamelled and finished in Guangzhou (Canton) for export to the European market during the Qing dynasty — a practice common from the late 18th century through the 19th century. The detailed narrative painting and balanced border design suggest it was part of a higher-quality export order, rather than a mass-market production piece.

The back is unglazed at the footrim and otherwise unmarked, consistent with mid-late Qing export wares. The enamels remain rich and well-preserved, with only a minor 1 cm hairline crack along the rim, which does not detract significantly from the overall aesthetic or structural integrity.

• Origin: China, Jingdezhen kiln / Guangzhou-decorated

• Period: Qing dynasty, ca. 1850–1880 (likely Guangxu reign)

• Style: Famille Rose / Canton export ware

• Material: Porcelain with overglaze enamel and gilding

• Diameter: 20.4 cm

• Condition: Excellent decorative condition with minor rim hairline (approx. 1 cm); no restoration or repainting

Plates with multi-figure narrative compositions such as this one are increasingly sought after, particularly when in good condition and with clear Guangzhou workshop characteristics. This piece is an excellent example of Chinese craftsmanship tailored for the European market, blending traditional symbolism with refined courtly themes.