Chinese Lacquer Papier Mache Tea Tray Gilt Figures Mandarin Qing 19th Century
£75.00
Inventory Code: INV4956
Object: Tea tray
Material: Lacquered papier mache
Origin: China
Period: Qing Dynasty
Date: 19th Century
Decoration: Black lacquer ground with gilt Mandarin figures, boat, pavilions, garden architecture, trees and foliage
Marked: Unmarked
Measurements:
Width: 10.1 in / 25.7 cm
Height: 2.7 in / 7.0 cm
Depth: 4.5 in / 11.5 cm
Condition:
FAIR (3/5) - Surface wear, scratches, rubbing and losses to the black lacquer and gilt decoration. Areas of exposed papier mache are visible, particularly around one end and the edges, with additional small chips, age related cracking and general wear consistent with age and use. Please review the photos carefully for more details.
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DESCRIPTION
An antique Chinese Qing Dynasty lacquered papier mache tea tray of elongated rectangular form with rounded corners and a distinctive raised central divider and pierced carrying handle. The black lacquer surface is decorated with detailed gilt Mandarin figures arranged within a traditional Chinese landscape of pavilions, garden architecture, trees and foliage, together with a charming boat scene. Selected faces and decorative details are picked out in pale and colored pigments, creating an attractive contrast with the black and gold ground. The shaped central section gives the tray an unusual architectural profile while dividing the interior into practical compartments. Despite considerable age related wear, the surviving decoration retains strong period character and decorative appeal.
COLLECTOR’S NOTE
Chinese lacquered papier mache wares became particularly popular during the Qing Dynasty, including pieces made for the export market in the 19th century. Black lacquer grounds enriched with gilt Mandarin figures, landscapes and architectural scenes are characteristic of this decorative tradition and remain sought after by collectors of Chinese export and lacquer wares.
NOTES
Please review all photos carefully as they form part of the description.
