Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
An exceptionally rare 18th-century Japanese export porcelain charger decorated with the iconic 'La Dame au Parasol' design commissioned by the Dutch East India Company (VOC). The reverse features continuous underglaze blue karakusa scrollwork and classic spur marks within the unglazed footrim.
Story
In 1734, the Dutch East India Company hired artist Cornelis Pronk to invent Chinoiserie patterns for export porcelain. His parasol ladies became legendary, but production costs in Japan proved so astronomical that the VOC canceled the project after just a few years.
Maker / Origin
Designed by Dutch draughtsman Cornelis Pronk (1691–1759) under official contract with the VOC, who sought contemporary European-directed designs to revitalize their Asian ceramic trade. The pattern was sent to Batavia and then on to Deshima, Japan, where master potters at Arita painstakingly translated the watercolor designs into porcelain.
Condition & Value
The owner reports no rim chips, hairline cracks, or enamel restoration under UV inspection. The footrim shows expected kiln grit and five distinct spur marks, indicating exceptional preservation that commands a high market premium.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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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.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.