Overview
An authentic Chinese export porcelain small octagonal platter decorated in underglaze blue with the classic 'Canton' pattern. It features a stylized river landscape with pagodas, bridges, and sampans, framed by a rain-and-cloud border.
Preliminary identification
Chinese Export Blue and White Canton Porcelain Small Platter, c. 1820
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Story
Crafted in the bustling kilns of Jingdezhen, this platter traveled down rivers to Canton where merchants traded it to Western sea captains. It survived centuries of sea voyages and family dinners, only to be lovingly mended with gold lacquer.
Maker / Origin
While individual potters and painters remain anonymous, this was produced by highly skilled guild artisans working in the Canton export system. These workshops specialized in mass-producing hand-painted wares specifically tailored to satisfy the Western obsession with exotic Eastern imagery.
Condition & Value
The platter shows typical manufacturing flaws of the period, including minor iron spots and glaze pitting. There is a notable historic chip on the lower rim that has been stabilized and filled with a gold-colored lacquer repair. This repair preserves the structural integrity and adds historical character.
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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 compsRegional 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.