Description

Klaber & Klaber, London, 1978. Catalogue of exhibition held 10 April - 22 April, 1978. Paper covers, [50] pages total with 23 numbered pages, introductory pages, and 13 unnumbered leaves of plates. Introduction by Pamela Klaber. In good+ condition with light bumping and creasing to edges of covers and light overall scuffing, fading and soiling to covers as well. Binding tight. Pages clean and unmarked. Not Ex-library. No remainder marks. Black and white illustrations. Klaber & Klaber were highly regarded for their well-researched scholarly exhibitions in their shop in Knightsbridge and the detailed catalogues that were published in connection therewith. [From Introduction] Comparative collecting is a fascinating way to study Porcelain, and by delving into the stories behind the patterns, a whole new facet to Porcelain Collecting opens up, and one not only learns about Chinese and Japanese mythology, but also economics, trading and finally about Porcelain as a whole. The first European nation to step into the Orient to do trade were the Portuguese. They arrived in 1514, but it wasn't until 1557 that they established their centre at Macao, not far from Canton. Ship loads of Chinese Porcelain were brought back to Lisbon, and were auctioned off; many heads of states were among the new collectors. It wasn't until the 17th century that the public saw Porcelain in any quantity, and it soon became much sought after. The newly formed Dutch East India Company set up offices in Bantam and were soon sending over ship loads of Chinese blue and white export wares. By 1614 the directors of the Company were stipulating what they wanted and by 1635 they were sending out drawings and wooden models in European shapes to be copied. This explains the similarity of contemporary European silver, pewter and glass to the 17th century Chinese Porcelain, and of course the same continued into the 18th century. . .