A Large Scale Qing Dynasty Famille Rose Beaker Vase

A large scale famille rose beaker vase decorated throughout woth birds, butterflies, flowers and foliage upon a white ground with gilded highlights.

Famille rose, ‘the pink family’, was first introduced to the genre of Chinese ceramics in the first quarter of the 17th century. The palette of soft pinks, yellows and greens on a white, clean background was largely influenced by a European (more specifically French) taste. The Macaron-like shades of the famille rose alined neatly with the mode of the Rococo, fashionable in France at the time. Contrary to the famille verte palette of the previous era, famille rose designs could be fired at a lower temperature, allowing for softer shades to survive the firing process.

This beaker vase with a bulbous centre is of good proportions. The crisp decoration of butterflies, birds and flowers is evenly spread and of wonderful quality. The reoccurring depiction of the peony, China’s national flower, stands for riches and honour.