18th Century Chinese Yongzheng Enamelled Porcelain Bowl with Jesuit Priest

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A rare and highly unusual Chinese porcelain bowl dating to the later Yongzheng period, distinguished by its exceptional figural decoration. … Read more A rare and highly unusual Chinese porcelain bowl dating to the later Yongzheng period, distinguished by its exceptional figural decoration. Crafted in porcelain, the bowl is decorated in colourful overglaze enamels with the unusual subject of a Jesuit priest accompanied by a Chinese attendant. The distinctive European religious figure makes the decorative scheme particularly noteworthy within the context of early 18th-century Chinese porcelain. The presence of a Jesuit priest reflects the fascinating artistic and cultural interaction between China and Europe during the Qing dynasty, when Jesuit missionaries were active at the imperial court and European subjects occasionally appeared in Chinese decorative arts. The overglaze enamel decoration remains in good condition. The bowl is missing its original lid and has a small hairline and chip. Measuring 13 cm across including the handles and 8 cm high, this is a compact but particularly distinctive example of early Qing dynasty enamelled porcelain. Period: Yongzheng Period, 18th Century Country of Origin: China Material: Porcelain Dimensions: Height: 8 cm Width: 13 cm including handles See less