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A GUANGXU MARK AND PERIOD PORCELAIN CAP STAND
Qing Dynasty, Guangxu period (1875-1908)
A tall cylindrical cap stand --although it could have served also as a tool holder, the height of the piece is more consistent with cap stands-- with dragons chasing the flaming pearl between two scroll and lotus borders.
The main motif shows a huge dragon with scales highlighted in gold and in the manner of the Guangxu era, puffing smoke from its nostrils; the large dragon seems to face a much smaller dragon whose back legs intrude into the scrolled border, but whose front is cut-off to adjust to the space; multi-colored clouds are seen among flames. The quality of the dragons is superior to that of many pieces produced during this period, while the iron red used is consistent with the Guangxu reign.
The two borders are interesting in that the scrolls resemble decoration seen in Ming pieces (the "classic scroll); the lotus flowers are outlined in gold as well.
The border around the mouth of the stand is also decorated in overglaze iron red with a different kind of dragon, which might be a version of the qilong; there are two bands of gold enamel as boundaries, which are absent from the lower border.
The base is glazed white and sports the six character kaishu mark of the Guangxu emperor, somewhat off-center.
H. 11 1/4 in. (28.5 cm.)
Diam. 4 7/8 in. (12.3 cm.)
For cap stand, see Wang Qingzheng, "A Dictionary of Chinese Ceramics", p. 91.
Condition: Excellent
Ref. 686159
Price on Request
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