PORCELAIN WIG HOLDER
China, Qing Dynasty, 19th century period
It is articulated in three sections: a four-lobed base with short feet imitating lingzhi mushrooms; a shaft similar to a ritual bell, the sum of which has a corolla of lotus petals; and a hollow sphere at the top with openwork medallions of dragons. The shaft and the foot are connected to each other by phoenix-like "buttresses". Very rich polychrome enamel decoration combining multiple techniques including enamels in the style of the "Rose Family" and the imitation of marble ("faux-marble") noticeable in the base. Rich decoration with multiple auspicious symbols (the top sphere refixed / restored, a hole centring the underside, the top cover here lacunar).
H: 28 cm - D: 15.8 cm
Notes:
1. Imported from Europe, wig/hat-bearers appeared in China in the 18th century. Their function was twofold: to preserve the shape of the headgear when it was not worn and to perfume it. Thus, the hollow of the sphere was filled with fragrant herbs whose sweet scent was diffused both through the side medallions and through the openwork cover at the top.
2. This type of object could be used in pairs. Examples made of porcelain and cloisonné enamels are attested.
3. When made of porcelain, this type of object was particularly suitable for demonstration or even for the "tour de force" of potters. In fact, the combination of the difficult techniques of porcelain's ajours and the revolution/mobility of the sphere make it a complex object. In addition, it was a question of mastering the firing of the multiple muffle fire enamels. The challenge was pushed to the point of imitating materials other than porcelain by trompe l'oeil. Thus, some known models imitate cinnabar lacquer. Ours, on the other hand, has parts imitating marble.
Comparison: For a comparable but better quality wig/hat holder bearing the mark of Emperor Daoguang, see the one sold by Adam Partridge, Macclefield, Cheshire, United Kingdom, 10/11/2012, lot 1061.

A RARE FAMILY-ROSE PALETTE AND FAUX-MARBLE PORCELAIN WIG STAND / HAT HOLDER
China, Qing Dynasty, 19th century