The ogee-form bowl is decorated with three roundels enclosing foreigners in a garden setting, all in reserve on a faux boisground. 7 7/8 in. (20 cm.) diam. There is a chip restored to the rim with composite material (the chip approx. 1.5 cm., with slight overpainting beyond). There is possibly some minor touching up to the enamels in the roundels. There is some surface wear and scratches, as expected with age.  With a wood stand. Estimation: USD 1,200 - 1,800

Note: The 18th century was a time of great technical experimentation for Chinese potters who enjoyed the challenges of imitating other materials in porcelain. This faux-bois-ground bowl epitomises their technical capabilities, coping, as it does, a knotty, wood grain. It is also notable for the stylised depiction of Westerners in the roundels with their European dress, full heads of hair, bushy eye brows and large noses.

Christie's on line. The Art of China.