Bidspirit auction | Worcester ”Dragon in Compartment” Cup

Worcester ”Dragon in Compartment” Cup & Saucer - Worcester, England. ”Dragon in Compartment” pattern porcelain demitasse or coffee cup with saucer, 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. (Teacup) height: 2 3/4 in x width: 3 3/4 in x diameter: 3 in. (Saucer) diameter: 6 1/4 in. Condition: To the cup there are signs of repair to the underside; there are hairline cracks along the underside. There are flea bite chips along the rim and foot of the cup; there are flea bite chips along the underside of the saucer. To both the plate and cup there are light accretions along the surface, possibly adhesive remnants. To the cup there are losses to the gilt, primarily along the upper rim and handle. To the saucer there are losses to the pigment and gilt along the face of the plate; small losses to the gilt along the rim. There is light surface wear to the saucer, including light scratches commensurate with use.