Extremely rare antique Chinese ruby-back Canton Enamel tray, dating to the Yongzheng period, circa 1730. Very fine decoration of a scholar surrounded by 12 beauties, a popular 18th century Chinese theme, made famous by the Yongzheng Emperor’s commission of 12 paintings of beauties for the Summer Palace. Back is decorated with a vibrant and rare ruby-colored dragon among clouds, with gilt eyes, surrounded by a ruby enamel border, which was popular for only a brief time during the Yongzheng reign.
Provenance: Galerie Bertrand De Lavergne, Paris, 2018.
Tray approximately 13 3/8” wide by 8 1/2” high. Typical hairlines in the enamel, professional restoration throughout maybe 20% of tray. Somewhat lopsided, and rests on two of the four feet. Please zoom in and study all photos as they are part of the description. Display stand not included.
