Partial Set Of Export China Porcelain, Monogrammed "jm," Circa 1785–1795

A rare partial set of Chinese export porcelain, made during the Qianlong reign, circa 1785–1795. It consists of two large cylindrical pitchers, two deep plates, and an oval, multi-lobed serving dish resting on a wide foot.

Manufactured in Jingdezhen for the Western market, the set features a rich cobalt-blue and gold decoration consisting of star-patterned bands, loop motifs, and geometric borders. This type of personalized porcelain was commissioned by European and American clients through the Canton trade.

Each piece bears the same pseudo-heraldic cartouche: a white shield containing the gold initials “JM,” set upon a stylized ermine mantle and surrounded by blue ribbons, drapery, and gold tassels. On each of the two pitchers, this monogrammed cartouche is repeated on both sides.

The border decoration belongs to the groups known in the literature as “Blue Canton Star and Band” and “Exeter pattern.” The Victoria and Albert Museum holds a late 18th-century Jingdezhen sample plate featuring various examples of borders and heraldic decorations offered to Western customers when they placed orders. The pieces exhibit slight natural variations in thickness and color. The oval platter, which is heavier, has a slightly more gray-blue body and a yellow-ochre firing line around its wide, unglazed foot, due to the natural presence of iron in the ceramic body. The five pieces form a cohesive set from the same private service commissioned at the end of the Qianlong period.

Dimensions:

• Pair of pitchers: H 18 cm, W approx. 16 cm, base Ø 10.3 cm, weight 554 g and 591 g
• First plate: Ø 23.3 cm, H 3 cm, weight 507 g
• Second plate: Ø 23.3 cm, H 3 cm, weight 440 g
• Oval platter: L 26.7 cm, W 19 cm, H 5.2 cm, weight 681 g

Condition:
The first plate has a fine crack starting at the rim, as well as slight wear on the gilding of the monogram and the rim. The second plate has a few minor firing defects, a fine superficial mark in the glaze on the reverse, and more significant wear on the gilding of the rim. The oval dish shows wear on the gilding along the upper rim, the foot, and the monogram, with no cracks or scratches. Both pitchers show some wear on the gilding along the handles and rims, while the monograms are very well preserved. Each has the same minor manufacturing irregularity on the inside of the handle; the second also has a very small superficial crack in the enamel at this location. There is no structural damage to the pitchers.

Please examine the attached photographs carefully, as they are an integral part of this description. If you have any questions, we will be happy to answer them. The item will be shipped with full tracking and insurance.