Object Description
Chinese Export porcelain rare sucrier decorated with The Valentine or Alter of Love Pattern in grisaille or encre de chine. Although a small size this was normal for the time and makes the painting even more delicate.
Painted in the early form of the ‘Valentine Pattern’ which is also referred to as the alter of Love pattern. Although it is a well known pattern it is only found on a small range of Chinese export pieces.
The decoration shows a pair of turtle Doves or Love birds perched on Cupids Quiver in front of an alter with a pair of burning hearts on the top. The tree with the fruit is thought to represent the Breadfruit Tree.
The two cartouches of the scene are below a shell scrolling border and the lid has a landscape scene.
The dating of the pattern is based on the armorial ware of Ansom and according to David Howard Chinese Armorial Porcelain Volume 1 was inspired by Piercy Brett and Lord Ansom’s stay on Tenian Island
A really excellent piece and rare