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.” 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 1/4 in x diameter: 3 1/4 in. (Bowls, each) height: 1 1/2 in x diameter: 5 3/4 in. Condition: To one of the cups, there are repaired break along the footrim. There are possible signs of restoration, particularly, there are scattered areas of the glaze that fluoresce under UV light, primarily along the underside of the handle and the underside of the teapot. Light wear to the footrim, including an area of uneveness resembling a small chip. To the other teacup, there are two possible hairline cracks to the right of one of the floral vases along the body of the cup, the longest measuring approximately 1/2 inch; this is possibly a small quadrant of deep crazing to the glaze. To the plates, there are no cracks or signs of repair. Fleabite chips along the rims and footrims; to one of the plates, there is a small chip along the footrim. To the plates and cups, there are small rounded and linear firing flaws. Scattered losses to the gilt and glaze, particularly along the rims and handles.