Identification

Chinese Blue and White Kraak Porcelain Plate, Chang'e and Rabbit

Photo reference

3 uploaded photos

Overview

The plate exhibits classic diagnostic features of authentic Kraak export porcelain. Visual evidence includes the central medallion depicting Chang'e and the moon rabbit, radiating border panels with auspicious symbols, and a foliated rim.

Story

Kraak porcelain was produced in Jingdezhen during the late Ming to early Qing dynasties (late 16th to 17th century), specifically tailored for the European export market via Portuguese and later Dutch East India Company trade routes.

Maker / Origin

Unattributed

Condition & Value

The visible central medallion and base show good structural integrity with standard, authentic firing characteristics (adhering kiln grit, iron spots). However, the full rim is not visible in the provided photos.

Full Research

See what it's actually worth.

Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

Market Analysis

Kraak porcelain remains a foundational category within the Chinese export market, appealing to both traditional collectors of Ming/Qing ceramics and buyers of European Golden Age decorative arts. Prices are highly stratified by scale, the complexity of the central motif, and condition. While minor rim fritting is universally accepted as a characteristic of the ware, structural hairlines or significant restorations severely depress values in today's highly selective market.

Value Drivers

Highly desirable figural/mythological central motif (Chang'e and the moon rabbit) commands a premium over standard floral or bird patterns.

Authentic late Ming/early Qing firing diagnostics on the base (kiln grit, iron spots) confirm period authenticity.

Classic Kraak radiating panel design with auspicious symbols strongly appeals to traditional export collectors.

Concerns

Unverified diameter — if the piece is a smaller standard plate (<25cm) rather than a large dish, the estimate will skew toward the lower end.

Unverified rim condition — structural hairlines or significant edge chips would necessitate a severe downward revision.

Lack of full-frontal photography prevents confirmation of overall glaze condition and potential overpainting.

Best Venue

List with a specialized Asian Art auction house (e.g., Bonhams, Skinner, or Sotheby's online sales) to maximize visibility among dedicated export porcelain collectors. Prior to consignment, obtain exact measurements and clear, well-lit photos of the entire rim under UV light to confirm the absence of restoration.

Upside Potential

If the plate is confirmed to be a massive charger (approaching 50cm in diameter) in excellent condition, the valuation range shifts dramatically upward into the $10,000-$20,000 tier, as demonstrated by the Bonhams Wanli rabbit dish comp.

Authenticity Risk

Before consignment, verify: Are there any chips, hairlines, or areas of restoration along the rim, or is it just typical minor glaze fritting? Please provide a photo of the entire front of the plate.

Also found — market-range context

Related comps outside the valuation band· 3 comps

Surfaced during research but not used to anchor the valuation — wrong form, species, era, or no published price. Shown so the market range around this item is visible.

  • Christie's· 2026-03-27
    THREE BLUE AND WHITE PORCELAIN KRAAK VESSELS. MING DYNASTY, LATE 16TH-EARLY 17TH CENTURY.
    Lot of three unspecified vessels; different quantity and potentially different forms.
    $6,985
  • An Assembled Pair of Chinese Kraak Porcelain Chargers
    Link could not be verified.
    $1,260
  • Chiswick Auctions· 2023-05-22
    A CHINESE KRAAK BLUE AND WHITE 'DRAGONFLY' DISH
    Link could not be verified.
    $400