Bidspirit auction | 4 Worc. Dragon in Compartment

4 Worc. Dragon in Compartment Teacups & Saucers - Worcester, England. Set of four ”Dragon in Compartment” pattern porcelain teacups with saucers, 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. (Teacups, each) height: 2 1/4 in x width: 4 in x diameter: 3 1/4 in. (Saucers, each) diameter: 5 1/4 in. Condition: To one of the cups, there is a repaired break along the lower portion of the handle. To two other cups, there are possible signs of restoration or repair, primarily along the footrims; there are scattered areas that fluoresce under UV light. To one of the cups, there is a small chip along the rim that has been painted over with gilt. Scattered rounded and linear firing flaws; along the underside of one cup, there is a raised, rounded firing flaw or possibly a small chip. To one of the saucers, there is a toned hairline crack along the rim that extends downward approximately 1 inch. To two of the saucers, there are signs of restoration along the undersides and small areas of the rims, specifically, there are yellowed accretions that fluoresce under UV light. To one of the saucers with signs of restoration, there is a partially repaired chip and small, radiating hairline crack along the rim that correspondes to an area of toned accretions; there is an additional minute chip along the rim that appears to have been restored. To two of the saucers, there is a smalll area of deep crazing along the underside. To the cups and saucers, there are fleabite to small-sized chips along the footrims. Wear to the gilt and glaze, including scattered losses, primarily along the rims and handles.