1641 Chinese porcelain plate overdecorated in the Netherlands with David & Goliath

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Description:

Qing Dynasty
Qianlong Period (1736-1795)
Date ca 1750
Diameter: 232mm
Code: 400

Provenance:

• Van Spengen
• J Leegstra Collectie Haren

This plate is an example of Amsterdams Bont, a type of Chinese export porcelain overdecorated in the Netherlands in the mid-18th century (ca. 1740-1750). The original blank was produced in China, after which it was enamel-painted in Holland with European-style imagery and text.

At the center, the plate depicts the biblical scene of David slaying Goliath. David stands triumphantly over the fallen giant, raising a sword, while Goliath lies defeated on the ground with his spear beside him. Above the scene is a handwritten Dutch inscription, rendered in a loose cursive hand, referring to the episode in moralizing terms.

The scene is framed by two putti (cherubs) holding a garland around a central cartouche, reinforcing the allegorical and theatrical character of the composition. The border is richly decorated with Rococo-style scrollwork, lattice patterns, birds, and stylized foliage in red, green, and black enamels.

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Interpretation

Although the central image represents a biblical story, its inclusion on this plate likely carries a political and satirical meaning. In the context of the 1747 Orangist movement, David’s victory over Goliath symbolized the idea of a smaller, righteous force overcoming a powerful enemy, often associated with Willem IV, Prince of Orange, during a time of national crisis.

The combination of image and Dutch inscription suggests that the plate functioned not only as a decorative object but also as a form of popular political expression, blending religion, satire, and contemporary events.

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Summary

• Type: Chinese export porcelain, overdecorated in the Netherlands

• Style: Amsterdams Bont

• Date: ca. 1747

• Subject: David and Goliath (with political undertone)

• Decoration: Polychrome enamels with Rococo motifs, birds, and putti

• Function: Decorative and possibly propagandistic

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