Preliminary identification

Chinese Famille Rose 'Two Dragons' Large Charger

Photo reference

5 uploaded photos

Overview

An impressive, large porcelain charger decorated in vibrant famille rose (fencai) enamels, depicting two five-clawed imperial dragons chasing a central shou (longevity) character amidst stylized clouds and bats. The piece features a traditional wooden storage box (tomobako) with Japanese collector inscriptions, indicating its long-held place in a historic Japanese collection.

Story

Created during a period of intense global fascination with Chinese imperial design, this charger was made for the Japanese export or collector market. The accompanying inscribed wooden box proves it was treasured for generations across the sea.

Maker / Origin

Produced by highly skilled artisans in Jingdezhen, the historic porcelain capital of China. During the late Qing and early Republic periods, private kilns revived classic imperial patterns of the Qianlong reign to meet the voracious demand of international collectors, particularly in Japan.

Condition & Value

The charger appears to be in very good condition with no visible cracks or major chips in the photos. There is minor wear to the gilt rim and light surface scratches consistent with age. The presence of the original box has protected it well over the decades.

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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.