Bidspirit auction | Set 4 Worcester ”Dragon in

Set 4 Worcester ”Dragon in Compartment” Plates - Worcester, England. Set of four ”Dragon in Compartment” pattern porcelain dessert plates, ca. 1815. Unmarked. 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: There are no cracks. To each of the plates, there are signs of possible restoration, particularly along the undersides; scattered areas, primarily along the footrims, fluoresce under UV light. To one of the plates, there is significant crazing along the underside; to another plate, there is a small area of crazing along the underside. Fleabite chips along the rims. Light wear to the footrims. To one of the plates, there is a small chip along the footrim that appears to have been glazed over. Scattered toned accretions along the undersides. Wear to the gilt and glaze, including small losses, particularly along the rims. A few small, scattered rounded firing flaws.