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.” One saucer with ”Spode” mark in red along the underside. 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 1/2 in x width: 4 in x diameter: 3 in. (Bowls, each) height: 1 1/2 in x diameter: 5 in. Condition: One saucer with two filled chips to the rim, seemingly with a resin-like material. One saucer with a small filled chip to the rim. One saucer with a small chip to the rim. One cup with a hairline crack extending downwards approx. 2 inches from the rim near the handle. All plates and cups with general wear throughout including some small frits to the footrims, losses to the gilt, and surface wear.