CLEIJ ORIENTAL ART
Specializing in Chinese and Japanese porcelain and ceramic works of art from the 17th and 18th century

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Chinese Imari barber's bowl


Description
Whereas the vast majority of Chinese export porcelain produced for the European market consisted of tea and dinner service sets, occasionally specialty pieces were commissioned. This exceptional barber's, or shaving, bowl is an example of such a specialty item. The decoration of this bowl consist of peony and lotus flowers, painted with great artistic skill. The rim is decorated with three groups of flowers and fruits. The decoration is typical for the 1st half of the 18th century. This bowl dates from the reign of the Chinese emperor Kangxi (1662-1722) or just thereafter. In this context it is remarkable that a study of the records of the Dutch East India Company reveals that during the 1729-1760 period Chinese Imari shaving bowls were purchased in China only three times (in 1737, 1742 and 1748, totaling less than 850 pieces!). Hence, this Imari basin is a rare and unique piece. The diameter of this interesting basin is 10.75 inches (about 27.5 cm).

Condition
Good, with noticeable chipping to the rim. Remarkably for a barber's bowl, there is only minimal wear to the highlights.

Age
1st half of the 18th century.

Price $975

Please refer to item no. 1KC007 when making inquiries.

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