Extremely rare antique Chinese Canton enamel famille verte dish in the form of a lotus blossom, with lobed edges. The central roundel depicts the God of Longevity, Shou Lao. Shoulao (Shou Lao) is recognizable by his tall, over sized forehead. Representing wisdom and long beard representing long life. He is sitting at a rock formation beneath a tall pine tree. He has a gourd containing elixir tied to his staff and a scroll in his right hand. It is quite rare to see Shou Lao with a scroll. To the right of Shou Lao there are two deer, which also are symbols of long life. To the left there is a figure possibly a scholar, either sitting or kneeling. The radiating petals in’famille verte’ palette are decorated with pink flowers and blue-green foliage. The reverse is turquoise enamel. The unusual shape and colours of this dish make me think. That it might be from the Qianlong period (1736-95). At the widest point it measures 19cm in diameter. Condition: The outer border has enamel loss and cracks which reveal the copper below. The centre roundel does not have any enamel loss, but has fine star cracks. This item is described as accurately as possible but. Please see all the photos as they form and are an important part of the description. Thank you for viewing.
