Exhibition of Blanc de Chine

Almost ten years in the planning, visiting collectors and travelling the world, the extensive exhibition contains 132 pieces of Ming and Qing blanc de chine figures and vessels, mainly from private European collections. Twenty-eight of these pieces come from the collection of Captain J. Meuldijk, The Netherlands, including the remarkable He Chaozong Guanyin, no. 1 in the catalgoue, illustrated on the back cover. We are fortunate to have three other examples by the famous potter, who is hightly regarded in China. The superb Damo, no. 11, also from the Meuldijk Collection, is on the front cover.

Museums, collectors and dealers have been fascinated and intrigued by the wonderful porcelain produced at Dehua in the Fujian Province, China. From the late Ming Dynasty, the rich thick cream glaze and sculpted figures and vessels have been eagerly sought. Precise dating is difficult, as in most cases reign marks are absent. Dating pieces from unearthed tombs has been a great help, as has the identification of seal marks impressed in the back of figures or the base of vessels.

Provenance is always a key factor in Marchant’s publications. Marchant believe knowing the names of previous owners, be they dealers or collectors, is an essential part of their history, and a guide to authenticity.

The exhibition will take place at 120 Kensington Church Street from Monday 3rd November until Friday 28th November.

A hardback fully illustrated book of the collection will be available from the first week of October, priced at £80 GBP/ $130 USD (inc. p&p) and will be able to view on their website http://www.marchantasianart.com.

Asian Art Week gallery and Exhibition opening times:
Monday-Friday 10:00-17:30
Saturday 1st November 10:00-17:30, 18:00-20:00 late night opening
Sunday 2nd Novemver 11:00-16:30

Our new gallery is also now open across the road at 101 Kensington Church Street, open Monday-Friday 10:00-17:30.

No. 1

Guanyin seated with her hands covered by long flowing robes.
The back impressed with a three-character sealmark of He Chaozong within a double gourd.
9 1/4 inches, 23.8 cm high.
Late Ming dynasty, circa 1630.
Carved openwork wood stand.