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Would appreciate the forum's comments whether this dish is of Tianqi period. Thanks.

My impression is that late Ming popular kiln wares usually exhibit stronger cobalt and a greater incidence of glaze and potting irregularities, especially around the foot. This dish is attractive but probably too perfect for the period, in my opinion.

Also, most traditional Chinese porcelain painters seem to have shown a compulsion always to decorate center medallions on dishes where such features are present. Before the late 19th century the space often was a focal point for coats of arms of European buyers who commissioned these Chinese export wares. I tend to associate undecorated centers like this one with some late 19th century and subsequent tea wares made for Western markets.

I have one example of a Tianqi mark on Japanese porcelain, though it is an image of the demigod who serves Japanese retailers, Fukusuke, and not a dish for table use (photo attached FYI). However, on the "tip of the iceberg" premise, I suspect the mark may be found on other categories of Japanese ceramics too.

Best regards,

Bill H.

Thank you Bill H, for your most learned opinion. Much appreciated.

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