A Chinese blue and white and two miniature vases, 20th century the baluster form vase with a flared neck decorated in underglaze blue with two cartouches depicting ducks in a pond with lotus flowers, between large lappet and key fret borders, all encased in phoenix over branches pierced gold overlay from the base to the rim, unmarked. Together with a pair of Chinese export miniature polychrome floral vases, height 14.76 in. and 3.94 in.
- Polychrome - Made or finished in many colours. For furniture, it is used to indicated a painted finish.
- Lappet Decoration - In the context of furniture, ceramics, and oriental wares, the word "lappet" refers to a decorative motif that consists of a repeated pattern of stylized or abstracted "lappets."
A lappet in this context is a decorative element that resembles a small, hanging flap of cloth or fabric, but rather are stylized patterns that resemble the shapes and folds of lappets. They can be found on a wide range of objects, including furniture, vases, bowls, and plates.
Lappet decoration can take many different forms, but typically consists of a series of semi-circular or pointed shapes that are repeated in a continuous pattern. The shapes may be simple or highly ornate and may be arranged in a regular or irregular pattern. The design may also include other decorative elements, such as floral or foliate motifs.
Lappet decoration is often associated with Asian design traditions, and can be found on a wide range of objects from these regions, including Chinese porcelain, where lappet decoration is often used as a symbol of abundance and prosperity, and is believed to have protective and auspicious qualities.
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