A Chinese Export 'Mandarin Palette' Famille Rose Porcelain Punch Bowl, Qing Dynasty, Late Qianlong Period, c. 1760-1795

Estimated value: $400 - $600. A Chinese Export 'Mandarin Palette' Famille Rose Porcelain Punch Bowl, Qing Dynasty, Late Qianlong Period, c. 1760-1795 (Qing Dynasty, Late Qianlong Period (c. 1760-1795)) — a researched valuation with cited comparable sales in Asian Art, from findthevalueof.com.

About this item

This punch bowl is a fine example of Chinese export porcelain, a category of wares created in China specifically for trade with the West during the 18th and 19th centuries. Produced during the Qing Dynasty, likely in the prolific kilns of Jingdezhen, it was decorated to appeal to European and American tastes. The style is known as 'Mandarin palette,' characterized by dense, colorful panels depicting scenes of Chinese life, which fascinated Western consumers. The bowl's decoration, with its vibrant 'Famille Rose' enamels and intricate purple diaper-patterned ground, dates it to the late Qianlong period (c. 1760-1795), a high point for the quality and variety of the China trade. These objects were not just functional items for serving punch, a popular beverage of the era, but also status symbols that showcased their owner's wealth and access to exotic, global goods. Today, they are collected for their historical significance, decorative appeal, and as tangible evidence of early global trade networks. The market for these bowls is mature, with value being determined by period, quality of decoration, size, and, most importantly, condition.

How the value was reached

The valuation is based on a review of comparable auction results and market data. The primary anchor is a verified auction result for a near-identical bowl at Weschler's in 2023, which sold for $150. However, that example was noted to have significant condition issues, including chips and nicks. The present example appears to be in much better condition, justifying a higher estimate. Other market data from retail platforms like Etsy and Chairish, while not direct auction comparables, show asking prices for similar, smaller bowls in the $170-$350 range. Given the good condition and desirable purple-ground decoration, a fair market auction estimate is $400 - $600. A recommended reserve would be $350. After typical seller's commission (10-15%), net proceeds would likely be between $340 and $540.

Comparable sales

Expert notes

Before offering this bowl for sale, it is essential to obtain an in-hand appraisal from a specialist in Chinese export porcelain. This is necessary to confirm the period attribution (late Qianlong vs. a later date) and to measure the exact diameter, as size is a critical factor in its value. A physical examination using UV light is also recommended to definitively rule out any undisclosed restoration, which would materially affect its value.