Preliminary identification

Chinese Famille Rose 'Two Dragons' Charger, late Qing Dynasty

Photo reference

5 uploaded photos

Overview

An impressive porcelain charger decorated in vibrant famille rose (fencai) enamels, featuring two five-clawed dragons chasing a flaming pearl centered by a Shou longevity symbol. The reverse is decorated with iron-red bats and a wave-pattern border, complete with an apocryphal six-character Qianlong reign mark.

Story

Created during the twilight of imperial China, this charger uses the five-clawed dragon—traditionally reserved for the emperor—alongside bats and cranes to form a visual prayer for supreme longevity and good fortune.

Maker / Origin

Crafted by skilled artisans in Jingdezhen, the historic porcelain capital of China, this piece reflects the late Qing revival style. Workshops during this era frequently applied apocryphal Qianlong marks to pay homage to the golden age of Chinese porcelain craftsmanship.

Condition & Value

The charger appears to be in very good condition with no visible cracks or major chips. There is minor wear to the gilt rim and typical age-related crazing within some of the thicker enamel layers. The accompanying wooden box shows light wear consistent with age.

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

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.