Plate
Unknown Artist
Medium
Painted enamel
Dimensions
Diam. 4 in. (10.2 cm)
Classification
Enamels
Culture & Period
China · Qing dynasty (1644–1911), Qianlong period (1736–95)
Department
Asian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Bequest of Mary Clark Thompson, 1923
Accession Number
24.80.412
Tags
Art Historical Context
This exquisite painted enamel plate, hailing from China's Qing dynasty during the Qianlong period (6–95), exemplifies era's mastery of luxury decorative arts. Measuring just 4 inches in diameter, this small yet intricate object was likely crafted for elite use, perhaps as part of a scholar's desk set or a ceremonial dish. The Qianlong reign marked a golden age of imperial patronage, where workshops in Beijing and Jingdezhen produced enamels blending Chinese traditions with subtle European influences, such as the translucent glazing techniques adapted from cloisonné. Adorned with delicate moti...