The large finely decorated dish with a figural center and border, the central roundel
having two Chinese figures in discussion, on a garden terrace before a pavilion and a willow tree,
surrounded by a band of Iznik style flowers and stylized leaves,

the border with four panels of further Iznik like flowers (tulips*)

alternating with panels of Chinese laborers in landscapes;

the verso with a sprig of blooming prunus, and one of bamboo

Literature : This type of figural painting and border is discussed at length in
"Kraak Porcelain", Rinaldi, Border IX, pp.112-116.

 
"The peculiarity of this border is that it blends typical Kraak panelled borders with Transitional style motifs,

such as descriptive scenes with people in a landscape and a number of flowers peculiar to these wares.

*These are usually referred to as 'tulips', yet many varieties of flowers are depicted :

carnations, a small double petaled round flower and broad very stylized flowers with still leaves in pairs,
almost an armorial flower, which does not represent a tulip at all."

These flowers, found on a V.O.C document dated 1639, are known as "Dutch flowers",
and are typical of the flowers painted on Iznik wares.
Tulips, native to Turkey, were introduced into Holland in the late 1500s.

As well, "figures-in-a-landscape" is the principle central motif for Border IX.

Rather than the previous passive mythological or historical characters, the figures

"offer a very strong narrative element,
being represented whilst talking, walking or working, always doing something".

Condition : Overall excellent with minimal fritting and typical Kraak glaze flaws;

a glaze chip (2 o'clock); a 2" tight hairline (11 o'clock)

12.5" Diameter x 2.25" High

RESERVED

#8057

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Ming / Transitional Figural Kraak Charger, China, 1635-50, Rinaldi, Border IX 

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