Bidspirit auction | Set 7 Worcester ”Dragon in

Set 7 Worcester ”Dragon in Compartment” Plates - Chamberlain's Worcester, England. Set of seven ”Dragon in Compartment” pattern porcelain dessert plates, ca. 1815. Marked in handwritten script along the underside. The pattern also known as ”Kylin” or ”Bengal Tiger.” Provenance: The Distinguished Collection of Leo & Doris Hodroff. Worcester began producing this design in the 1770s. The name comes from the auspicious mythical creature set in the compartments, the Qilin, depicted uniquely with a large mouth emanating with with gilt fire or vapor. A similar creature more akin to a Foo Dog features in the opposite compartment, depicted standing on a plinth holding an object. In the compartments between these two fierce beasts are still lifes of vases and floral sprays. Surrounded by vibrant red, green, and gilt decoration in the borders. The central motif is a chrysanthemum, a symbol of longevity. Overall the pattern is rife with auspicious symbols and motifs. The pattern draws heavily from Chinese Kangxi examples, showcasing the Western desire for imported goods. This pattern is also an excellent example of the cross-cultural exchange that occurred as a result of the import of porcelain goods, showing how Western eyes interpreted Eastern symbology. This is especially evident in the names given to the pattern, ”Bengal Tiger” or ”Dragon in Compartment, ” showing how these mythical creatures were interpreted into known animals in the Western world. (Plates, each) diameter: 8 1/2 in. Condition: To one of the plates, there are signs of repair along a small area of the rim corresponding to a toned hairline crack; the hairline crack extends downward from the rim approximately 1 inch. To the same plate, there are two minute areas of restoration along the rim, which appear to have been painted over with gilt. To another plate, there are signs of restoration or repair throughout, particularly visible along the underside when inspected under UV light; there is a possible repaired break along the rim of the plate. To two of the plates, there are areas of crazing, particularly visible along the undersides. To a few of the plates, there are signs of possible restoration along the undersides; specifically, there are scattered areas, primarily along the footrims, that fluoresce under UV light. Fleabite chips along the rims, noticeable upon close inspection. A few plates with fleabite to moderate-sized chips along the footrims. Wear to the gilt and glaze, including losses. Light scratches along the surfaces and some toned accretions along the undersides.