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The timeless artistic radiance of "famille rose" porcelains

The "famille rose" porcelains, famous for their delicate tones and refined patterns, are gems of Chinese ceramic art from the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912). Established in the 18th century, these creations, blending tradition and innovation, offer a range of soft colors that enchant collectors and art enthusiasts worldwide.


Hexagonal wine pot or tea pot, China, late 18th century, conserved at the MET, New York


The classification of Chinese porcelain by family is the work of Western collectors. In the 19th century, Albert Jaquemart used the terms “famille verte” and “famille rose” in his book “L'histoire de la céramique”. This distinction enabled him to describe pieces according to the specific glazes they were composed of.


Famille rose appeared during the reign of Emperor Kangxi (1662-1722), but it was under his successor, Yongzheng (1723-1735), that it really took off. The success of these porcelains was based on a European chemical discovery. In 1650, the Dutch chemist Andréas Cassius discovered the formula for creating pink enamels, known as “Cassius purple”. Thanks to exchanges between China and the West, facilitated by the Jesuit missions, this new color was introduced to the Middle Kingdom.


Jar with basket of auspicious flowers, China, 18th century, conserved at the MET, New York


The manufacture of Famille Rose porcelains requires exceptional craftsmanship. After an initial high-temperature firing (1300°) to solidify the porcelain base, craftsmen delicately apply pink, white and yellow glazes to a layer of glaze. The piece then undergoes a second low-fire firing (750°), where the enamels fuse with the glaze to create patterns of incomparable finesse. The designs, often inspired by nature, feature intricate floral compositions, idyllic landscapes and abstract motifs, testifying to the artistic mastery and aesthetic sensitivity of the craftsmen.


The decorative motifs of Famille Rose porcelains offer a veritable visual symphony, each element charged with meaning. Flowers are omnipresent, symbolizing beauty, prosperity and harmony with nature. A famous example is the “millefleurs” motif inspired by European tapestries. Animal motifs such as birds and fish evoke notions of happiness, longevity and prosperity. Finally, the often idealized and stylized landscapes transport the viewer into a poetic universe, where reality blends with the imaginary.


These pieces were massively exported to Europe in the 17th and 18th centuries, and were often commissioned according to European tastes, incorporating Western motifs into their iconography.


Plate, China, late 18th-19th century, conserved at the MET, New York


Finally, Famille Rose porcelains represents a pinnacle of Chinese ceramic art, bearing witness to the rich cultural exchanges between East and West. Each piece is a work of art, telling a story of technical mastery, innovation and timeless beauty.


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