The Binh Thuan Double Phoenix Plate. Ming Dynasty Swatow, first decade of the 17th century

An underglaze blue and white plate from the wreck of the 'Binh Thuan' Chinese export to Southeast Asia. Diameter: 10 ½” (27cm)

The plate painted with two confronting standing phoenixes, flanked by leafy trees and below a large chrysanthemum, surrounded by borders of fishscale decoration and five oval cartouches, each with two sprays of flowers and blossom. The reverse with scattered leaves. An official “Binh Thuan Shipwreck” salvage number attached, and as depicted in the catalogue.

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