Chinese Export Porcelain Teacup and Saucer

Qing Dynasty, Qianlong Period (1736–1795)

Porcelain with underglaze blue decoration and aubergine-purple glaze

Cup: Height 2 in. (5.1 cm); Diameter 3 1/4 in. (8.3 cm)
Saucer: Diameter 5 in. (12.7 cm)

Description

This elegant teacup and saucer represents a refined example of Chinese export porcelain produced during the Qianlong period (1736–1795) of the Qing dynasty. Manufactured in the imperial porcelain center of Jingdezhen, the set reflects the flourishing international trade between China and Europe in the eighteenth century, when large quantities of porcelain were produced specifically for the Western market.

The exterior surfaces of both cup and saucer are covered in a rich aubergine-purple glaze, sometimes referred to as ziji or aubergine glaze, a copper-based high-fired glaze admired for its deep, lustrous tone and velvety texture. The warm purplish-brown exterior contrasts strikingly with the delicately painted interiors.

The interior of the cup is decorated in underglaze blue with naturalistic floral sprays, rendered with fluid brushwork and subtle cobalt shading. The saucer features a larger floral composition with blossoming branches and small birds, arranged in a balanced yet lively composition typical of Qing dynasty decorative aesthetics.

A narrow geometric border runs along the inner rim of both cup and saucer, providing visual structure and framing the central motif. The cobalt blue displays a soft diffusion characteristic of traditional Jingdezhen underglaze cobalt decoration.

The porcelain body is thinly potted yet sturdy, with finely finished foot rims revealing the smooth white porcelain body beneath the glaze. The careful balance of form, color, and decoration demonstrates the high technical standard achieved by Jingdezhen kilns during the height of the Qing export porcelain trade.

Historical Context

During the eighteenth century, European demand for Chinese porcelain increased dramatically as tea consumption became a central part of social life across Britain and continental Europe. Chinese kilns, particularly those in Jingdezhen, responded by producing specialized tea wares designed for export through the Canton trading system.

Teacup and saucer sets such as this were especially popular among European consumers, as the saucer accommodated Western tea-drinking customs that differed from traditional Chinese tea practices. The combination of monochrome exterior glaze with interior blue-and-white decoration was both aesthetically appealing and practical, as underglaze blue surfaces resisted staining from tea.

This form therefore represents an important material witness to the global tea trade and the cultural exchange between China and Europe in the eighteenth century.

Artistic and Cultural Significance

Export porcelain of this type illustrates the remarkable adaptability of Chinese ceramic production to international markets. While rooted in traditional Chinese ceramic techniques, the forms and decorative arrangements were often adjusted to suit Western tastes.

The restrained elegance of the aubergine glaze exterior combined with delicate blue-and-white interior decoration reflects a sophisticated balance between Chinese artistic tradition and European demand for refined tableware.

Today, comparable examples are preserved in major museum collections worldwide, including decorative arts and Asian art collections in Europe and North America.

Condition

The cup and saucer remain as a matching set. The glaze surfaces appear well preserved, with the underglaze blue decoration retaining clarity and vibrancy. Overall condition is consistent with careful preservation of an eighteenth-century porcelain tea service component.