Materials and Dimensions
- Materials: Fine kaolin porcelain, famille-rose enamels, gold gilding and decorative colored inlays.
- Dimensions: Approximately 106 cm high; 50 cm in diameter; 14.5 cm inner diameter.
- Decoration: Pierced six-sided lantern panels, gilt scrolling florals, jewel-like accents, chi-dragon handles and tower-style eaves.
- Mark: Qianlong reign mark (imitation).
Form and Handwork
This pair of Qianlong-style famille-rose porcelain palace lanterns is made in the tradition of Jingdezhen porcelain craftsmanship. Each lantern rises in a tiered, pagoda-inspired form, from a hexagonal base and lotus platform to a double-gourd body, openwork lantern chamber and eaved crown. The paired chi-dragon handles and carefully balanced sections give the monumental form a sense of ceremony.
The construction combines hand-thrown and assembled sections with sculpting, pierced carving, famille-rose painting and gilding. Six openwork panels reveal intricate decoration, while simulated colored-gem accents and scrolling floral patterns add depth. The complex components require careful fitting and repeated kiln firings, bringing together several demanding porcelain techniques in one architectural work.
Design, Symbolism and Display
Traditional palace lanterns served as both lighting and ceremonial furnishings. In this pagoda-inspired pair, the pierced gilt panels suggest light shining through carved patterns, while the continuous floral scrolls symbolize lasting prosperity. The dragon handles and roof-like tiers evoke protection and auspicious power; the landscape and children motifs on the body express wishes for abundance, harmony and flourishing generations.
Displayed together, these large Jingdezhen famille-rose porcelain lanterns make a striking focal point for a spacious interior, reception hall or contemplative setting. Their layered silhouette, openwork detail and gold accents reflect the ornate decorative language associated with Qianlong-style imperial ceramics. The Qianlong reign mark is an imitation, as noted above.