Description
Chinese export after Chamberlain's Worcester, England. A "Dragon in Compartment" pattern porcelain plate, Jiaqing ca. 1810. The pattern also known as "Kylin" or "Bengal Tiger."
Illustrated in Howard, "Choice of the Private Trader," pg. 105, no. 101.
Provenance: Christie's, London, "Fine Chinese Export Porcelain Enamels, Bronzes, Works of Art and Hardstones," 10 November 1983, Lot 601; The Distinguished Collection of Leo & Doris Hodroff.
Lot Essay:
Worcester began producing this design in the 1770s. The name comes from the auspicious mythical creature set in the compartments, the Qilin, depicted uniquely with a large mouth emanating with with gilt fire or vapor. A similar creature more akin to a Foo Dog features in the opposite compartment, depicted standing on a plinth holding an object. In the compartments between these two fierce beasts are still lifes of vases and floral sprays. Surrounded by vibrant red, green, and gilt decoration in the borders. The central motif is a chrysanthemum, a symbol of longevity. Overall the pattern is rife with auspicious symbols and motifs.
The pattern draws heavily from Chinese Kangxi examples, showcasing the Western desire for imported goods. This pattern is also an excellent example of the cross-cultural exchange that occurred as a result of the import of porcelain goods, showing how Western eyes interpreted Eastern symbology. This is especially evident in the names given to the pattern, "Bengal Tiger" or "Dragon in Compartment," showing how these mythical creatures were interpreted into known animals in the Western world.
This plate is additionally interesting in that it is a Chinese copy of the Worcester design. Thus making it a Chinese copy of an English copy of an earlier Chinese design.
Diameter: 9 3/4 in.
Illustrated in Howard, "Choice of the Private Trader," pg. 105, no. 101.
Provenance: Christie's, London, "Fine Chinese Export Porcelain Enamels, Bronzes, Works of Art and Hardstones," 10 November 1983, Lot 601; The Distinguished Collection of Leo & Doris Hodroff.
Lot Essay:
Worcester began producing this design in the 1770s. The name comes from the auspicious mythical creature set in the compartments, the Qilin, depicted uniquely with a large mouth emanating with with gilt fire or vapor. A similar creature more akin to a Foo Dog features in the opposite compartment, depicted standing on a plinth holding an object. In the compartments between these two fierce beasts are still lifes of vases and floral sprays. Surrounded by vibrant red, green, and gilt decoration in the borders. The central motif is a chrysanthemum, a symbol of longevity. Overall the pattern is rife with auspicious symbols and motifs.
The pattern draws heavily from Chinese Kangxi examples, showcasing the Western desire for imported goods. This pattern is also an excellent example of the cross-cultural exchange that occurred as a result of the import of porcelain goods, showing how Western eyes interpreted Eastern symbology. This is especially evident in the names given to the pattern, "Bengal Tiger" or "Dragon in Compartment," showing how these mythical creatures were interpreted into known animals in the Western world.
This plate is additionally interesting in that it is a Chinese copy of the Worcester design. Thus making it a Chinese copy of an English copy of an earlier Chinese design.
Diameter: 9 3/4 in.
Condition
There are several repairs to the rim; two are larger. There are seven hairline cracks: six small cracks approx. 1 inch in length extending inwards from the rim; one hairline approx. 2 inches in length along the base near the footrim. A few light frits to the rim. One slightly larger chip to the rim. Light surface wear primarily consisting of losses to the gilt along the edge of the bowl of the plate and the edge of the rim.
Buyer's Premium
30%
Chinese aft. Worcester Dragon in Compartment Plate
Estimate $400-$800
Starting Bid
$200
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This auction is curated by:
Sean BlanchetAsian Art Specialist
Robert SnellPaintings and Sculpture Specialist
Leo & Doris Hodroff Chinese Export Collection
Nov 12, 2026, 11:00 AM ESTSt. Paul, MN, United States
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