Chicken Pattern Blue and White Saucer c 1725, Qing Dynasty, Yongzheng Era

This fine piece of porcelain, a plate from the Qing Dynasty, is a testament to the enduring craftsmanship of Jingdezhen, the porcelain capital of China. It presents a classic blue and white aesthetic, with intricate botanical motifs arranged harmoniously across its surface. Each segment is bordered by precise lines, creating a sense of order and elegance. The central medallion is often emblematic, possibly symbolizing longevity or prosperity. Plates like this were not only domestic staples but also coveted items for international trade, reflecting the cultural exchange between China and the world during the Qing era.

* The Ca Mau Cargo

The Ca Mau Cargo refers to a Chinese cargo sunken sometime between 1723 and 1735 off the coast of Vietnam’s farthest point in the South China Sea, discovered by Vietnamese fishermen in 1998. It is believed the ship was a Chinese merchant’s cargo on its way from Canton (Guangzhou) to Batavia when it caught fire and sank. The merchant had ordered the goods on board for Dutch traders, who had limited access to China and its ports.

* Porcelain for the European Market

The Ca Mau Cargo consisted of numerous types of porcelain, chinaware and blue and white wares, all designed for the European market. Blue and white ceramics recovered from the cargo appear decorated with the so-called ‘Scheveningen landscape’, also known as ‘Deshima décor’. This motif usually depicted a traditional Dutch fishing village, executed in Chinese style. Chinese wares with Western motives were extremely popular and made to order and were known as ‘China de commande’.

Related works : Pieces with this decoration are in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum, London (inventory FE.22:1-2007).