Title: Antique 19th Century Chinese Porcelain Underglaze Blue & Copper Red Charger - 15"

Description:
Offered is an exceptional, large antique Chinese porcelain charger plate measuring a commanding 15 inches in diameter. This striking piece features a classic, vibrant motif of a mythical Buddhist Lion (Foo Dog / Shishi) chasing a ribboned brocade ball (Shi Shi Xi Qiu) amidst stylized scrolling wisps of auspicious clouds.

The charger showcases a rare and technically challenging underglaze blue and copper-red (Youlihong) decoration. The creature's body and facial expressions are rendered in deep cobalt blues, while its fiery mane, tail plume, and specific focal accents are highlighted in volatile underglaze copper red. The reverse side features simple, rustic underglaze blue bamboo or grass sprigs painted along the outer rim.

Condition Report:
In very good antique condition, especially considering its size and provincial firing origins. Free of structural cracks, hairlines, or repairs. Minor internal factory anomalies typical of 19th-century regional kilns are present, including light surface scratching, age-appropriate minor pitting in the glaze, and natural kiln debris/grit adhered to the unglazed foot rim.

Pieces featuring underglaze copper red (Youlihong) are highly valued by collectors due to their inherent production rarity. Copper is an incredibly unstable element to fire; if the kiln's temperature fluctuates by even a few degrees or the reduction atmosphere isn't perfect, the copper glaze burns away into a dull grey, muddy black, or transparent green. Achieving a distinct, visible red alongside cobalt blue required extreme master craftsmanship, making these mixed-glaze large chargers far scarcer than standard blue-and-white wares from the same era.

This piece displays several diagnostic physical traits that separate it from modern reproductions: