AN UNUSUAL 'FAMILLE-ROSE' EUROPEAN-SUBJECT 'EROTIC' PLAQUE QING DYNASTY, QIANLONG PERIOD

of rectangular form, painted to the centre with an oval cartouche with an allegorical scene of a young maiden seated in her toilette, locking a dove in a casket, an old man watching on, inscribed around the border  'PENDANT QUE CETTE BELLE ENCOR JEUNE ET VOLAGE. JOUE AVEC UNE PETIT OISEAU. LA VEILLE LUI PROPOSE UNE PLUS DOUX BANDINANGE. ET LUI PARLE DAMOUR AU NOM DUN IOUVENCEAU.'

The plaque is in very good condition with the exception of light rubbing to the black enamels of the lettering, very minor burst glaze bubbles, iron-spot firing imperfections and light glaze scratches. It should be noted the enamels are of a slightly softer tone than the catalogue illustration would suggest.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Famille rose European subject erotic plaques are rare and more common are plaques painted with Chinese erotic scenes, such as the set of four panels sold at Christie's London, 15th June 1987, lot 161.