Antique Chinese blue and white saucer "Cuckoo in the House", 18th century

Description

Charming Chinese blue-and-white porcelain saucer with the beloved Cuckoo in the House decor.

This refined saucer from the 18th century depicts an ornate pavilion surmounted by two birds among flowering branches. The rim is decorated with a subtle foliate motif, typical of this classic export decor. Despite its small size of only 10 cm and a small rim frit and edge chip, this plate exudes great elegance and is an attractive collector's item.

Origin & meaning
The Cuckoo in the House decor is among the most recognisable blue-and-white motifs produced by China in the 18th century for export to Europe. The cottage symbolises harmony and shelter, while the birds (cuckoos) in flowering branches represent nature, spring and prosperity. This specimen was acquired from Venduehuis The Hague, an auction house with a long tradition of selling Asian porcelain.

Dimensions
Diameter: 10 cm
Period: 18th century
Origin: China
Condition: small edge frit and one edge chip, see photos for details.