A Chinese export pewter-encased porcelain small dish or ashtray, decorated in vibrant famille rose and verte enamels with the traditional "Bok Choy" (cabbage leaf) pattern. The central medallion depicts two peaches of longevity alongside an orange bat of blessings, from which radiate alternating panels of green and yellow cabbage leaves populated by pink butterflies and orange bats. The porcelain body is securely mounted within a polished pewter casing featuring subtle cigarette rests along the rim.

This style of pewter-clad porcelain was highly popular for the Western export market during the mid-20th century, combining the durability of metalware with the colorful, symbolic hand-painted designs of Chinese porcelain. The combination of bok choy (representing wealth) and peaches (representing longevity) makes this a highly auspicious decorative object.

Historical & Style Details

• Bok Choy (cabbage leaf) pattern with peaches, bats, and butterflies
• Period: Mid-20th Century
• Origin: China

-Technique: Hand-painted famille rose enamels on porcelain, encased in pewter

• Materials: Porcelain, pewter
• Markings: Red circular export stamp on base reading "MADE IN CHINA" with a central character/numeral
• Decorative Details: Alternating yellow and green cabbage leaf panels, central longevity peach medallion, bats and butterflies
• Colour & Surface: Bright green, yellow, pink, and iron-red enamels; dull grey metallic pewter casing
• Condition: Excellent vintage condition; minor surface oxidation and light wear to the pewter casing, porcelain intact with no visible chips or cracks, four green felt protective pads applied to the base rim

History

Pewter-encased porcelain wares, often referred to as "pewter-clad" or "pewter-mounted" porcelain, became a staple of Chinese export art from the late Qing dynasty through the mid-20th century. These pieces were specifically designed to appeal to Western tastes, serving utilitarian functions such as ashtrays, coasters, and decorative dishes while offering greater durability than standard porcelain. The "Bok Choy" or cabbage leaf motif is a classic Chinese design, where the word for cabbage (baicai) is a homophone for "hundred wealths," making it a popular symbol of prosperity among collectors of Chinese export porcelain.