A rare and superbly decorative Chinese export black lacquer panel, exquisitely gilt-decorated with figures, pagodas and emblazoned with a coat of arms, also displaying mottoes of the British royalty and nobility, such as 'Ich Dien' (of the Prince of Wales, 'Ora et Labora', and 'Tira Juncta in Uno'. In a modern gilt frame, set within a black cotton covered mat. Qing dynasty, early 19th century, circa 1815.

Provenance

Presented to General George Ramsay, 9th Earl of Dalhousie (1770–1838) by the Prince of Wales in thanks for his service. Lord Dalhousie enjoyed a very distinguished military career serving in the Peninsular War and commanding the 7th and 6th Divisions at Vittoria. From 1820 to 1828 he served as Governor General of British North America, founding Dalhousie College, before being appointed Commander-in-Chief in India from 1828–32. Fortunately, the finely detailed coat of arms allows us to date this magnificent set of lacquerware to a date just after 1815 as it incorporates the distinguished badge and motto - Tria Juncto In Uno - of a Military Grand Cross of the Order of the Bath. Although established in 1725, the Order was divided into two divisions, Military and Civilian in 1815. In 1813 Dalhousie had already been created a Knight of the Order of the Bath. However this was commuted to the Military division in 1815 when he was created the 1st Lord Dalhousie of Brechin Castle.

Why we like it

Chinese export armorial lacquerware is extremely rare and particularly sought after. The exquisite decoration of this lacquer panel is simply superb, which makes it a true collector's piece.

Such luxurious items were popular in England during the height of fashion for oriental exoticism, called chinoiserie in Europe. Available to order through best luxury goods retailers of the era, such exquisite items as lacquerware, botanical gouaches or reverse-painted glass, were manufactured in Canton to be shipped to Britain. Only the wealthiest and most powerful patrons could commission items, adorned with their family armorial device, coat of arms, or a crest, or a motto. 

En-suite lacquer screen, detailing the above provenance, is illustrated in Mallett 2002 catalogue, page 62 (detail - last image).

Dimensions

Size of the frame: 41 cm x 33.5 cm / 16" x 13"
Size of the lacquer panel: ~29 cm x 21.5 cm / 11.5" x 8.5"