An Armorial Province Charger
Kangxi.c1720
Dutch Market
Diameter: 18 � inches, 47cm

An armorial dinner plate very ornately decorated in rich famille rose enamels in rococo style, the central coat of arms surrounded by elaborate gilt scroll and shell framing the rouge de fer and white mantling, with two horses above a waterfall, all within a scalloped frame. The rim border having sprays of European flowers and four panels with monograms and crests.

This is the most famous of all the Chinese Export Armorial services. The original artwork, without a trace of Chinese influence, is believed to have been painted by Arthur Devis Sr. (1711-87) and still survives. The service was ordered by Leake Okeover circa 1738, and was delivered in 1740 (70 plates and 30 dishes) and 1743 (50 plates and four large dishes).