Antique Chinese Famille Rose Plaque, Five Elders With Taiji Scroll, Hand-painted

Antique Chinese Qing Famille Rose Plaque – Five Elders of Taiji, Hand-Painted

A finely hand-painted antique Chinese famille rose porcelain plaque, richly detailed with a scene of five elderly men representing the legendary gathering of scholars, including Su Dongpo, from the Song Dynasty era. The scene is set amidst delicately rendered trees, floral elements, and mountainous landscape. Several of the figures feature subtle convex modelling, creating a three-dimensional effect that adds depth and vitality to the composition. The plaque includes multiple seals and a prominent artist’s signature, highlighting its authenticity and skilled execution.

The scene illustrated appears to represent the traditional motif Wu Lao Tu (五老图) — the Five Elders, shown smiling and holding a scroll featuring the Taiji (Yin-Yang) symbol. This symbol, fundamental to Taoist philosophy, embodies the dual forces of Yin and Yang and represents the balance of all things in the universe. This interpretation draws from classic Daoist cosmology, in which the interplay of Yin and Yang gives rise to the Five Elements (Earth, Metal, Water, Wood, and Fire), from which the “myriad things” of the world are born. The Five Elders are associated with Taoist teachings and sometimes identified with directional deities corresponding to the five cardinal points in Daoist cosmology.

With its superb execution, rare subject matter, and philosophical depth, this piece is a significant and visually compelling work, highly appealing to collectors of Chinese art and Taoist symbolism.

Historical Background

The Song Dynasty (960–1279 CE) is considered one of the most culturally rich periods in Chinese history, noted for advancements in philosophy, literature, and the arts. Scholars such as Su Dongpo (also known as Su Shi) were central to the intellectual flowering of this era. Scenes such as this one reflect the ideal of scholarly gatherings where philosophical, literary, and cosmological subjects were debated and explored.

This plaque echoes this tradition through both subject and form, incorporating Taoist cosmology and symbolism while also employing sophisticated artistic techniques such as convex modelling for added visual dimension.

Measurements

Height: 35.5 cm
Width: 25.5 cm
Thickness: 1.1 cm
Weight: 2134 g

Condition

Excellent condition with no signs of damage, cracks, or restoration. The colouring and enamel are perfectly preserved, retaining vibrant clarity and precision.

Shipping & Packaging

• Item will be sent fully tracked and insured.

• Shipping cost includes labour, packaging, and postage.

Please study all accompanying photographs carefully, as they form an integral part of the description. Do not hesitate to ask any questions before purchasing.