Chinese blue and white plate with garden fence, peony and bamboo, Qianlong

This Chinese blue and white porcelain plate from the Qianlong period (1736–1795) shows a garden scene with an elegant garden fence, a flowering peony and bamboo. The centre is surrounded by a band with a diaper pattern and cartouches, and the wide rim bears flowering branches. The rim is finished with a brown iron-oxide line, typical of 18th-century export porcelain. The cobalt blue is deep and bright and the painting is lively. A plate with such a complete, well-preserved decoration is a fine starting point for anyone who wants to begin a collection of Chinese porcelain. Suits a classic or Dutch canal house interior, but also an eclectic interior where old and new meet. Hang it on the wall or place it on a plate stand. Very good condition. No chips, hairline cracks or restorations visible. Brown iron-oxide rim intact. A few small glaze pits and light scratches from use on the centre.