Symbolic Masterpieces | Kangxi Famille Verte Sweetmeat Dishes

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This set of Kangxi famille verte sweetmeat dishes are synonymous with the pinnacle of Qing dynasty porcelain craftsmanship, reflecting both artistic finesse and deep cultural symbolism. Characterised by their vibrant colours and intricate designs, these dishes not only serve a practical purpose, but also embody pre-eminent themes cherished in Chinese society. Complete sets of this type are rare, but two noteworthy collections reside in prominent institutions - the Palace Museum in Beijing and the Nanjing Museum. Two other sets have been auctioned in Hong Kong, further emphasising their cultural and historical significance.

^{A rare set of Chinese famille verte sweetmeat dishes. Sold for £124,800 (inc. fees)}

The famille verte palette with its rich greens complemented by reds, yellows and blues, reached its zenith during the Kangxi period (1662-1722). This period was marked by the Emperor's keen interest in arts and culture, leading to the refinement of porcelain production at the Imperial kilns in Jingdezhen. The sweetmeat dishes, delicately painted with butterflies flitting over blossoming flowers and fruiting sprays, showcase the era’s technical mastery and aesthetic ideals. Each motif carries profound meaning; butterflies symbolise joy, love and longevity, while the flowers represent fertility and abundance. The frequent depiction of shou characters, which denote longevity, reinforces the dishes' auspicious connotations.

^{A rare set of Chinese famille verte sweetmeat dishes. Sold for £124,800 (inc. fees)}

The rarity of complete sets enhances their value, both materially and symbolically. The set housed in the Palace Museum is documented in ‘The Complete Collection of Treasures in the Palace Museum: Porcelains in Polychrome and Contrasting Colours’ (1999), where it is celebrated for its artistic quality and historical provenance. Similarly, the set displayed in the Nanjing Museum, highlighted in the exhibition ‘The Official Kiln Porcelain of the Chinese Qing Dynasty’ (2003), underscores the continuing appreciation for ceramics from the Kangxi period.

The production of famille verte wares, particularly those embellished with symbols of longevity, escalated during the latter years of the Kangxi reign. This surge in craftsmanship is likely linked to the Emperor’s 60th birthday celebrations in 1713, a significant milestone in Chinese culture, marked by ceremonies that honoured age and wisdom. The commissioning of such elaborate sweetmeat dishes for this occasion illustrates how porcelain served as both functional art and a means of expressing imperial power and benevolence. It was a way to commemorate life’s milestones, reflecting the intricate relationship between art, culture and authority.

^{A rare set of Chinese famille verte sweetmeat dishes. Sold for £124,800 (inc. fees)}

International auction houses have recognised the significance of these dishes, with sales in 1986 and 2016 drawing considerable interest from collectors and connoisseurs alike. These events highlight not only the ongoing allure of Kangxi famille verte porcelain, but also the continued relevance of these cultural artefacts in contemporary society. The high auction prices achieved reflect a deep appreciation for the artistry, history and the symbolic narratives encapsulated in these dishes.

^{A rare set of Chinese famille verte sweetmeat dishes. Sold for £124,800 (inc. fees)}

In conclusion, the Kangxi famille verte sweetmeat dishes serve as a remarkable testament to the artistic and cultural legacy of the Qing dynasty. Their intricate designs and auspicious symbols resonate with the values of longevity and prosperity, making them much more than mere tableware. As the rare complete sets, such as those in the Palace Museum and Nanjing Museum, continue to be celebrated, they underscore the enduring fascination with Imperial porcelain and its role in reflecting the complexities of Chinese history and identity. Through these exquisite works of art, we gain insight into the past, appreciating not only their beauty, but also the rich stories they tell about an era steeped in tradition and artistry.

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