Description:
Chinese export porcelain fluted, oblong hexagonal or six-sided spoon tray decorated in the Famille rose palette in iron red, pink, blue, greens, yellow, brown, and black. The well has an element of the 'Valentine' pattern - 'Altar of Love' (two flaming hearts on an altar, two doves billing on Cupid's quiver, wreath and side curtain). The 'Valentine' pattern, a combination of pastoral, erotic, and exotic South Seas elements such as a breadfruit tree and coconut palm, was originally found on a 1743 dinner service made in Canton for Commodore George Anson (1697-1762). It was probably designed by then First Lieutenant Piercy Brett (1709-1781), Anson's official artist during his 1740-1744 circumnavigation; many of Brett's drawings were used as the basis for the engravings in "Anson's Voyages", published in 1748. 'Altar of Love' and 'Absent Master' (tree, wreath, dogs, sheep, shepherd's crook, pipes and hat) were independent motifs, remembrances of home, first combined on the 1743 service. Two other scenes are known to have been used: 2 wolves (or dogs) approaching a cottage; and a cottage, woman spining, man, oxen, and bridge (see HD 60.168). Prior to about 1750, a hostess offered only one teaspoon on a spoon tray, which guests stirred in turn. About 1750, sets of teaspoons became fashionable and spoon trays gradually became unnecessary; they continued to be made in China until the end of the 18th century but not in England.
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https://museums.fivecolleges.edu/detail.php?t=objects&type=ext&id_number=HD+63.011 |
