Waste Bowl, Chinese Picnic
Item Number: T188
Shape Type: Waste Bowl
Pattern Name: Chinese Picnic
Dimensions: H 3″, D 6″
Date: c. 1820-1830
Maker: Unknown
Maker’s Mark: Unmarked
Description:
An earthenware waste bowl printed in blue underglaze with a rather complex composition consisting of three distinct patterns. The interior of the bowl is printed in a central pattern that depicts an island on which are placed two very large vases on the right and a crane on the left. The vases dwarf the rectangular and circular buildings in the center of the island. In the background is a tree with palm-like leaves. Below the island are two additional cranes positioned in the water under a simple wooden bridge. This central pattern is surrounded with a large inner border made up of a panoramic design that is actually larger than the central pattern. In it, two Chinese figures stand on each side of another large vase with three unidentified objects. The figure on the left holds a spear, the one on the right supports himself with a cane. The rest of the panoramic border is made up of trees, flowers and a grouping of three cranes, one in flight and two perched on branches. A second border at the top of the inner bowl is of a geometric design. Two additional designs make up the exterior pattern of the bowl. One consists of a third figure holding a staff standing next to another large vase with large flowers in it. On each side of these objects are cranes. The second pattern on the exterior of the bowl consists of two Chinese porters who carry a large handled basket supported by a cane or wooden rod. Faux Chinese characters are printed on the basket. Grasses and flowers complete the scene. The fact that the flowers, trees, birds, and figures are without detail, and the presence of a characteristically large areas of deep blue background, suggest a date of c. 1820’s and a style that corresponds to the printed style of filled-in transfers. It is unmarked but it is of a style similar to Baggerley & Ball. This unusual pattern is recorded in the TCC Pattern and Source Print Database.
Condition: Good. There is one 1.5″ hairline to the rim.
