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I would like to know if this mug is early 18th c. (Yongzheng) or later (Qianlong), and how collectors would rate the quality of the artistry (aside from the condition)

Here is a link to photos of the mug.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/23676403@N07/sets/72157624209491808/

I've looked at a number of auction records and see that most mugs are done in armorial, some in a canton style of famille rose (dramatic bright reds), and others with floral motif. Probabley because the mugs were ment for export and so the designs were done to appeal to Europeans.

I've seen none with a traditional Chinese scene as this mug has.

Any thoughts on why that is?

The mug was repaired in the 19th c. as you can see the old staple holes, then 'restored' again later in the 20th c. when someone tried to hide the cracks and staple holes.

I removed all of the restorations and I am considering have the mug professionaly restored.

Do you think it is worth restoring?

Hello Tim,

You have a very nice mug indeed. I think the way the faces are painted fits with the ones I've seen on items from 1730/1760. I think with restorating a piece you never get the value of an undamaged one so the best reason to do so is to have a nicer display.I don't think it will increase the value with the costs of restoration. Small damages I restore myself but others keep it how they "found" it. I also know a lot of collecters who like the old staple restorations. So the best reason to do so is when you like to keep it and want a nicer display. Just my opinion of course.

Regards,

Arjan

Depends on what you mean with "worth". If it is monetary, then a professional restoration would no doubt increase its value, although the cost might be higher than what you paid. If you send pictures to a restorer, they will give you a preliminary estimate.

If you mean if it's "worth" to restore its antique or cultural value, I would think yes.
As you said, this decoration is quite rare. Could be some Buddhist religious or Chinese folk story, I would guess. Not what you find on the average export porcelain.

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