Lot 895: Chinese Famille Rose Hexagonal Porcelain Teapot with Narrative Scenes, Tongzhi Mark and Period
A Chinese porcelain teapot of hexagonal form decorated in polychrome famille rose enamels. The body features narrative scenes from Chinese literature or drama. One panel depicts a military figure in elaborate armour with long pheasant feathers in his cap, mounted on a horse. Another panel shows a domestic scene with a female figure looking out of a window and a male figure in a lower doorway. The lid has a recessed circular centre decorated with a miniature landscape featuring mountains and a pavilion. The teapot is constructed with a curved spout and twin metal wire overhead handles attached to porcelain loops. Gilt highlights are applied to the rim, spout, and handle loops. The base bears an iron-red six-character seal mark reading Da Qing Tong Zhi Nian Zhi, attributing the piece to the reign of the Tongzhi Emperor (1862-1874) of the Qing Dynasty.
Condition report:
The teapot is in good overall condition. There is minor wear to the gilded highlights and enamel decoration consistent with age and use. The metal handles exhibit typical patination. Minor firing grit is present on the unglazed footrim, which is a common characteristic of manufacture. A paper lot sticker is currently adhered to one face. No significant chips, cracks, or restorations are visible.
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