Porcelain Figurine Incense Holder, Chinese Republic Period, China (17036)

Description

During the Chinese Republic Period (1912-1949), the porcelain industry was revitalized in China, producing finely crafted porcelains that blended traditional styles with new techniques from Europe like the Famille Rose style. Meaning “pink family” in French, this style is known for its opaque pink enamel finishes combined with vibrant colors like yellow, green, and blue. Hand-painted flowers with overglaze enamels created soft, opaque colors such as distinct pink/rose hues

This female figurine of a court lady is elegantly attired with expensive garments and accessories as an aristocratic woman of means. Her hand-painted richly detailed robes in bright green and orange-red colors, white floral motifs and elaborate patterns, elegantly draped shawl and beaded belt hanging from her waist are characteristic of the artistic craftmanship of this period.

She holds a rose often seen in porcelain ware during this period as it has an extremely lengthy blooming season. It is  considered the “flower of eternal spring (or youth)” and is considered a symbol of long life. The sweet expression on her face is emphasized by her slightly smiling bowed lips and her oval countenance is framed by her hair which is pulled to the side and looped up in a chignon over each ear. Her vase-like object has a small central opening to hold incense (joss) sticks. Incense holders range from very simplistic to very artistic and decorative vessels. She stands on a rock-like base with a central vent hole, common in hollow-bodied export porcelain figurines of the period. It is in excellent condition..

The Chinese Republic replaced the Qing dynasty porcelain production in imperial kilns that declined in use, but was revived in Southern China’s Jiangxi Province which made high-quality finely designed porcelains in private kilns. With few restraints, they produced more colorful pieces with unique Western shapes and styles. Republic Period porcelains are now recognized for their high-quality, clear white finishes, striking glazes and unique designs and have become highly collectible.

Sources:

Terese Tse Bartholomew, Hidden Meanings in Chinese Art, San Francisco, Asian Art Museum of San Francisco, 2006.

“Collector’s Guide to Republic and 20^TH Century Chinese Porcelain,”

Carolyn Ann Greene, Politics and Patronage: A Re-examination of Late Qing Dynasty Porcelain, 1850-1920, Dissertation, Phoenix, Arizona State University, 2019.