The Enchantment of Glazed Porcelain Plates: A Tapestry of Cultures - China, Siam, Türkiye

This chapter in history witnessed China’s craft of wares destined for trade, weaving connections with vibrant Islamic communities sprawled across diverse Eastern and Southeast Asian realms. China’s artistry, reminiscent of the graceful foliage depicted in Islamic art, echoed the fineness of Turkic-Ottoman inspiration. Turks, akin to the fair-skinned Mongol brethren inhabiting the lofty Mongolian plains, anchored themselves in the southern reaches of the Anatolian Peninsula, known as “Asia Minor”. Here, at the juncture of the Anatolian Sea, fondly dubbed the “Aegeanerner”, a strategic bridge emerged – a tapestry of cultures binding the western shores of Anatolia, acting as an evocative conduit between the tapestries of Europe and Asia, a realm brimming with diversity and cultural richness.

During that era, the skilled craftsmen of Jingdezhen, the famed hub of Chinese porcelain mastery, wove intricate tales akin to the revered Kutahya ceramics of Türkiye. Their artistry unfolded in delicate designs, featuring blossoming branches within gracefully scalloped panels known as “Yaprak”, reminiscent of the original motifs. These patterns, resembling the ‘Tree of Life’, held within them the essence of the cosmos, the genes of nature, and, as cherished by Turkic beliefs, symbolized renewal, unending growth, and the spirit of a burgeoning nation. Remarkably, Türkiye art abstained from portraying human or animal forms, rooted in religious reverence. The Tree of Life’s profound symbolism echoed through the artistic tapestry of the Ayutthaya Kingdom, gracing the bindings of bamboo and the ethereal Vishnu’s wheel motifs, underscoring a spiritual connection with Buddhism during the reign of King Narai.

The mesmerizing charm of this grand plate is a tribute to the Turkish dining tradition, where the intimate act of sharing meals by hand calls for the embrace of a generously sized communal dish. Its beauty lies not only in the impeccable balance of meticulously crafted patterns, drawing the eye with their elusive harmont and rare allure, but also in the subtle whispers of ancient Chinese artistry adorning its underside. In this intricate tapestry design of Lot 181, myriad cultures converge seamlessly, weaving a narrative steeped in profound historical significance and authentic richness.

Lot 181
A large blue and white porcelain dish painted with floral scrolls within lotus-petal shaped panels (1 pc.)
Style: Chinese
Dimensions: W 36 cm H 7.5 cm
Circa: 18th Century
Estimated Price: 70,000 - 90,000 THB
Starting Price: 36,000 THB