Kraak-ware dish – Porselein – Copper-Red Underglaze – China – Wanli (1573-1619)

Rare Kraak Ware Dish with Copper-Red Underglaze DecorationChina, Wanli–Tianqi period, early 17th centuryA rare Chinese Kraak porcelain plate from the Wanli–Tianqi period, decorated in underglaze blue with an unusual and highly distinctive addition of copper-red underglaze decoration.The central scene depicts a goose perched on a rock in a watery landscape, surrounded by a spacious composition. The cavetto is divided into lobed panels containing alternating fruit and floral motifs, characteristic of Kraak export porcelain of the period.What makes this plate particularly remarkable is the use of copper-red underglaze alongside the standard cobalt blue. Copper-red decoration is exceptionally rare on Kraak porcelain. The technical difficulties of firing copper red are clearly visible on this example: parts of the red decoration have burned deeply into, and in places seemingly through, the thin porcelain body, resulting in distinctive firing flaws, irregular stains and areas of uneven coloration. Such defects are consistent with the challenging firing conditions required for copper-red decoration, including the sensitivity of copper oxide to the high temperatures and kiln atmosphere involved. Traces of green enamel are also visible, adding further interest to this unusual example.The pronounced firing imperfections are therefore not merely flaws but also provide a fascinating insight into the... lees verder bij Catawiki