Description
Chinese export porcelain teapot and cover, Qianlong ca. 1750. Decorated in the Valentine's or 'Altar of Love' pattern.
Provenance: Heirloom & Howard Ltd., 31 August 2001; The Distinguished Collection of Leo & Doris Hodroff.
Reference: Howard, "Choice of the Private Trader," pg. 89, no. 77.
Lot Essay:
The Valentine Pattern describes a scene that typically includes two doves on Cupid's quiver, an altar with two hearts, a breadfruit tree with a floral garland, a palm tree, a shepherd's pipes, and two recumbent hounds. This imaginative scene was likely based on drawings by Lord Anson's official artist, Piercy Brett, who sailed with him on a voyage of circumnavigation. While the trees are very similar to his published illustrations of the voyage, the other objects are allusions to absent love.
This pattern enjoyed popularity for around twenty years, lending itself well to armorial porcelains as well as variations. This teapot, for example, swaps the palm for a smaller plant and lacks the hounds.
Height: 5 1/2 in x width: 7 3/4 in x diameter: 4 1/2 in.
Provenance: Heirloom & Howard Ltd., 31 August 2001; The Distinguished Collection of Leo & Doris Hodroff.
Reference: Howard, "Choice of the Private Trader," pg. 89, no. 77.
Lot Essay:
The Valentine Pattern describes a scene that typically includes two doves on Cupid's quiver, an altar with two hearts, a breadfruit tree with a floral garland, a palm tree, a shepherd's pipes, and two recumbent hounds. This imaginative scene was likely based on drawings by Lord Anson's official artist, Piercy Brett, who sailed with him on a voyage of circumnavigation. While the trees are very similar to his published illustrations of the voyage, the other objects are allusions to absent love.
This pattern enjoyed popularity for around twenty years, lending itself well to armorial porcelains as well as variations. This teapot, for example, swaps the palm for a smaller plant and lacks the hounds.
Height: 5 1/2 in x width: 7 3/4 in x diameter: 4 1/2 in.
Condition
There are a few small chips to the footrim. There is a small repair to the tip of the spout and to the edge of the lid. Spiderweb hairline crack visible underneath the lid in the center. Light wear to the upper rim. Some loss to the gilt decoration.
Buyer's Premium
30%
Chinese Export Valentine's Pattern Teapot
Estimate $600-$1,200
Starting Bid
$300
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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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