Three Chinese Export blue and white botanical dishes. Mid-18th century. Photo: Christie's Images Ltd., 2012

Each unusually painted with a branch of cloves and one of nutmeg above a large pineapple complete with leaves, all within a narrow trellis band at the rim, comprising two chargers and a plate; 14 in. (35.5 cm.) diameter, the chargers; 9 1/8 in. (23.1 cm.) diameter, the plate (3). Estimate $2,000 - $3,000. 

Notes: The unusual design for these dishes is taken from Pierre Pomet, A Compleat History of Drugs, London, 1712, after original drawings from the French version Histoire Générale des Drogues, Paris, 1694; Pomet was chief pharmacist to Louis XIV. The only published evidence of this service appears to be a drawing of the design which was exhibited, 18th Century Relics of the Griffin Shipwreck, National Museum, Manila, Philippines, 1988, fig. IV.1.c, no. 33. Nutmeg became increasingly popular in the 18th century both as a spice and for medicinal purposes, and this lucrative commodity was the cause of several disputes between the Dutch and English East India Companies. Indeed, it is said to be the reason why the Dutch acquired the Banda Island of Pulo Run in exchange for Manhattan Island. The depiction of the large pineapple and branch of cloves is also extremely rare on Chinese porcelain. 

Christie's. Chinese Export Art. 23 January 2012. New York, Rockefeller Plaza www.christies.com