An attractive pair of Chinese export blue & white porcelain punch bowls, decorated with 'swimming fish' patterns, early 19th century / c. 1800description:On offer is this exquisite pair of large sized Chinese porcelain bowls, hand decorated under glaze in blue on milky white. They are matching and are elaborately decorated with patterns of various fishes and see anemones within borders of stylized flower motifs. The bottoms of the bowls show a decoration of a swimming crab. Th...e bowls bear a Kangxi four character mark within concentric circles. This wonderful pair was made in China in the early 19th century, c. 1800. The deep blue color and the used patterns indicate that these were made in the Kangxi taste, although their production might be of later date, the early production serving as an example and produced during a longer period because of the popularity of the design. Popular patterns like this 'swimming fish' pattern were produced during many decades, because of the ongoing European demand for them, so it is difficult to date them exactly.Many of these Chinese products were exported to Europe. Oriental porcelain was imported to Holland by the Dutch East Indies Company (VOC), which had special trading privileges to China and Japan. It is known that the Chinese factories reserved their best quality porcelain for export, thus meeting the European taste. The wealthy Dutch merchants were fond of the exquisite China trade objects and large quantities were shipped to Holland from the 17th century onwards. Dutch China trade came to an end about 1795, when Holland became involved in the Napoleonic wars, and Britannia (temporarily) ruled the waves. Although manufactured to be used, most of this Oriental porcelain was displayed in special China cabinets in distinguished houses. Chinaware was accumulated in Dutch private collections and cherished in families during many generations. These bowls originate from a private estate from The Netherlands.These bowls are in excellent condition They produce a clear sound, when knocked by fingernails, and have no serious damages, cracks or repairs. Some tiny rim glaze frittings (needlepoint size) need to be mentioned for accuracy. Displaying very nicely, this pair measures 6 inches (153 mm) across, while it stands 7, 3 cm (2 7/8 inches) high. Please view the pictures, which give a good impression of the wonderful quality and the outstanding condition of the objects. One picture shows a wine bottle (not included in this auction) for size comparison. I guarantee age and authenticity of these highly decorative collector's items, as described above.Shipping and payment:Item location: The Netherlands. Costs of shipping will be on account of buyer and will be kept as low as possible. Overseas (NL to USA or Asia) registered shipping costs will be USD 36.00. I always pack very carefully (the item will be double boxed) and will ship within 24 hours after receipt of payment. Please view my other auctions for similar items. I will be happy to combine shipments at lower costs. Please view my website for current offers of antiques, ceramics and collectables: www.haffmansantiek.nlOTHER EBAYER FEEDBACK: "Just wanted to say it really made my day to see this item turn out to be exactly as nice as you described it in your listing and when you answered my questions. I seldom get a item that is better than expected and this is one of those rare occasions. Thank you so very much for making it possible for me to display this and everytime it's viewed there will be a smile. I could not have asked for a better item or seller and definitely will put you in my favorite sellers category and look in often. Many thanks for everything and I do appreciate all you have done from the great packaging job to the great communication and everything in between. Best regards and with graditude - Museumcollections"• All Sales Final - No bargaining on shipping costs • Items are Sold As-Is • I do not cancel transactions on 'mistakes'. The transaction will need to be completed as per eBay rules.
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