Pair of Famille Noir Baluster Jars and Covers

Pair of Famille Noir Baluster Jars and Covers

This striking pair of Famille Noir baluster jars and covers beautifully exemplifies the refinement of 19th-century Canton Export wares. Rendered in lustrous black-glazed porcelain, these vases embody the storied artistry of Chinese decorative arts from the period.

Origin: China, Canton Date: 19th Century Material: Porcelain

Dimensions: Height: 62 cm (24.5 ins); Diameter: 42 cm (16.5 ins)

Condition: Fine condition with minor signs of age

Famille Noir porcelain became particularly desirable during the Qing dynasty, admired amongst Western collectors for its dramatic palette and elegant forms. Canton Export wares such as these enjoyed great acclaim in 19th-century Britain, their vivid enamels and bold silhouettes finding favour with both aristocratic and discerning middle-class homeowners. Similar examples may be found in major collections, including the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Notable Features:

• Exceptional black (famille noire) glaze, providing a rich, lustrous ground for intricate decoration
• Traditional baluster form favoured in Chinese porcelain, with domed covers topped by stylised finials
• Detailed polychrome enamelling, featuring auspicious motifs and florals characteristic of fine Canton Export wares
• Generous scale makes them ideal statement pieces for grand interiors or curated porcelain collections

The craftsmanship is evident in the harmonious proportions and the skilled application of enamels, reflecting influences from both Chinese tradition and the tastes of the burgeoning European market of the era. The pairing retains remarkable vibrancy to its decoration and clarity to its glaze, testifying to the enduring quality of 19th-century Chinese porcelain.

Highly sought-after by collectors for their rarity and visual impact, these vases encapsulate the peak of Famille Noir artistry. They are equally suitable for distinguished display within a drawing room, as a striking addition to a collection of works of art, or for those seeking a centrepiece of historical and aesthetic resonance.