Bidspirit auction | Pr Worc. Dragon in Compartment

Pr Worc. Dragon in Compartment Teacups & Saucers - Worcester, England. Pair of ”Dragon in Compartment” pattern porcelain teacups with saucers, ca. 1815. Unmarked. The pattern also known as ”Kylin” or ”Bengal Tiger.” This pair with unusual intertwined handles with blue flowers to the interior of the cups. 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. (Saucers, each) diameter: 5 1/2 in. Condition: To the cups, there are no cracks or signs of repair. There are areas of crazing to the glaze, particularly along the handles and footrims. To one of the saucers, there is a hairline crack along the rim that extends downward approximately 1/2 inch. Along the underside of the saucer, crazing is beginning to form; there are two small areas of possible hairline cracks along the underside, however, it is difficult to discern whether these are hairline cracks or areas of crazing. To the other saucer, there is crazing throughout. To each of the pieces, 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. Scattered, small rounded and linear firing flaws.