
Description
These are a pair of 19th-century Chinese export porcelain plates in the popular "Thousand Butterfly" (or "1000 Butterflies") pattern. They are characteristic of Famille Rose porcelain, which is defined by its use of an overglaze enamel palette.
Design: Each plate is meticulously hand-painted with numerous multicolored butterflies of various sizes and species, often featuring gilt highlights to accentuate the intricate details.
Symbolism: In Chinese culture, butterflies are traditional symbols of longevity, summer, and joy; the "thousand butterfly" motif represents an abundance of these blessings.
Origin: Produced in China during the Qing Dynasty (typically early to mid-19th century), these items were specifically created for the Western export market.
Condition:
Alterations: Unknown
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Good. A crack on the back of one.
Dimensions:
Height: 5.99 in.
Width: 6 in.
Depth: 1 in.
Category: Decorative Plates
Origin: China
Materials: Porcelain
Shipping:Domestic: Flat-rate of $30.00 to anywhere within the contiguous U.S. International: No International Shipping for this auction. Combined shipping: Please ask about combined shipping for multiple lots before bidding. Location: This item ships from Newmanstown, PA
Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.
Design: Each plate is meticulously hand-painted with numerous multicolored butterflies of various sizes and species, often featuring gilt highlights to accentuate the intricate details.
Symbolism: In Chinese culture, butterflies are traditional symbols of longevity, summer, and joy; the "thousand butterfly" motif represents an abundance of these blessings.
Origin: Produced in China during the Qing Dynasty (typically early to mid-19th century), these items were specifically created for the Western export market.
Condition:
Alterations: Unknown
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Good. A crack on the back of one.
Dimensions:
Height: 5.99 in.
Width: 6 in.
Depth: 1 in.
Category: Decorative Plates
Origin: China
Materials: Porcelain
Shipping:
Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.
Condition
Unknown; Some Imperfections; Good. A crack on the back of one.
Buyer's Premium
20%
19th-Century Chinese Export Porcelain Plates in the Popular "Thousand Butterfly"
Estimate $600-$1,190
Starting Price
$600
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Vintage & Design Auction
Mar 13, 2026 6:00 PM EDTNew York, NY, United States
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