Chinese Famille Rose Porcelain & Figurines
The Surviving Pieces: Chinese Famille Rose Porcelain & Figurines by Ch’ng Huck Theng (2001) is a prestigious and highly sought-after reference for collectors of late Qing and early Republic-period ceramics. Published by One East Marketing, this bilingual (English and Chinese) volume is more than just a catalog; it is a visual archive of a specific era of Chinese artistry.
A Testament to Elegance and Endurance
Step into the vibrant world of The Surviving Pieces, a definitive guide to the exquisite ‘Pink Family’ of Chinese ceramics. Author Ch’ng Huck Theng presents a meticulously curated collection that captures the transition of Famille Rose from the Imperial courts to the high-style export markets of the 19th and 20th centuries. This book is a vital resource for anyone seeking to understand the delicate balance of ‘foreign colors’ (yangcai) and traditional Chinese craftsmanship.
Key Highlights of This Volume:
- Bilingual Scholarship: Full English and Chinese text, making it a bridge between Western collectors and the heritage of the East.
- Focus on Figurines: While many books focus on vases and plates, this volume provides rare and detailed attention to the polychrome figurines that are often the “soul” of a collection.
- Period Expertise: Spans the critical years of 1870 to 1967, covering the late Qing Dynasty, the Republic period, and the mid-20th century—a timeframe often under-documented in traditional academic texts.
- High-Fidelity Visuals: Features 223 pages of high-quality color plates, allowing collectors to study the “spirit” of the brushwork and the specific opacity of the rose enamels.
In the world of antiques, information is the best insurance policy. The Surviving Pieces doesn’t just show you beautiful objects; it documents the survival of a culture through its most fragile medium. For the collector of Republic-period figurines or late-Qing export ware, this book is an indispensable ‘silent partner’ in authentication.
