Tray

Datemid 19th century

MediumPress-molded Chinese export porcelain with underglaze cobalt blue decoration

DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (width x depth): 10 3/8 x 8 7/8in. (26.4 x 22.5cm)

ClassificationsCeramics

Credit LineGift of Mrs. William K. Cole

DescriptionOval, Chinese export porcelain tray with pierced rim and hand-painted underglaze cobalt blue decoration showing a Chinese landscape; the tray is a type of Chinese export porcelain known as Cantonware. The central Chinese landscape consists of a willow tree with a Chinese structure to the right. A Chinese junk floats on the river that runs through the landscape, with a bridge in the foreground and houses, hills, and trees in the distance. The central landscape is surrounded by a series of borders. Closest to the landscape is a band of blue, with darker lines creating a geometric pattern inside. This is surrounded by a field of white and then a "Canton" border, consisting of a scalloped line with parallel lines of hatching running inside. The final border at the rim is a field of blue with darker lines creating stars inside. Imperfections in the porcelain appear as dots in the surface of the tray.

Object number1979.62.81

Subject Terms