Chinese serving dish, Diana Cargo shipwreck, Ex CHRISTIE'S

Chinese serving dish, Diana Cargo shipwreck, Ex CHRISTIE'S
ITEM: Serving dish
MATERIAL: Pottery
CULTURE: Chinese, Diana Cargo shipwreck
PERIOD: 19th Century A.D
DIMENSIONS: 57 mm x 352 mm x 278 mm
CONDITION: Good condition, repaired
PROVENANCE: Ex Christie's, Amsterdam, 1995

Comes with Certificate of Authenticity and Export Licence. If you are from outside the European Union, we will have to apply for the export licence again for your country, this takes 3 to 5 weeks and has a cost of 5% of the hammer price, this amount will be added to the final invoice.

The Diana cargo shipwreck, uncovered in the Straits of Malacca, is a fascinating example of 19th-century maritime trade. This British-built vessel, operated by the Swedish East India Company, sank in 1817 while transporting a large shipment of Chinese export porcelain and other trade goods from Canton to India. The Diana cargo, discovered and salvaged in 1994, provides unique insights into the trade dynamics of the time, showcasing the popularity of Asian porcelain in European markets. Salvaged items included around 25,000 pieces of porcelain, primarily in the iconic blue-and-white "Fitzhugh" pattern, characterized by its floral and auspicious motifs, a popular style among European buyers​

The porcelain from the Diana was meticulously crafted, with some of the finest pieces being chafing dishes and handled baskets painted in blue. Items were typically made for the European market, and their design and quality reflected the high demand for Chinese artistry. In addition to tableware, other artifacts found included personal items and opium pipes, reflecting the range of trade items in global circulation during this era. The recovery and sale of the cargo helped drive interest in shipwreck ceramics, and Diana pieces are now prized collectibles due to their historical and aesthetic value​

This shipwreck is also significant for its historical narrative, demonstrating the perils of maritime navigation and the impact of trade routes in the 1800s. The Diana had taken a dangerous course near the coast after resupplying, leading to its unfortunate fate on an unexpected reef. Its rediscovery brought attention to the interconnectedness of European, Chinese, and Southeast Asian economies, as well as the lasting appeal of Chinese porcelain, which was a symbol of cultural and economic exchange. The story of the Diana highlights the legacy of trade ships in shaping cultural tastes and global commerce

Measurement:	35.2 x 5.7 cm
Depth:	27.8 cm