Pair of Qing dynasty lidded vases. China, second half of the 19th century

Pair of Qing dynasty lidded vases. China, second half of the 19th century.
Blue and white porcelain.
Measurements: 50 x 23 x 23 cm.

Pair of globular body vases with white background embellished with foliate stems ending in large flowers. Foo dogs crown the lid and masks of chimeras are presented on the sides as a handle.

The pottery known for its chromaticism as "cobalt blue" or "blue on white" was highly appreciated in Europe from its early importation. In fact, it was so much appreciated by other cultures such as Islam that it was often works destined for this market that ended up influencing European ceramic production, which aspired to resemble as closely as possible this export production created in large quantities in China. It was not until around the middle of the 17th century that production began in this oriental country, blue and white porcelain being among the first to arrive directly in Europe in large quantities.