Chinese, circa 1705. Kangxi era European/English market Export Imari armorial charger decorated with peony and chrysanthemum blooms encircling the arms and crest of Pitt of Ewerne Stepleton, Dorset, sacred fungus mark in double blue circle mark to the back with H. Moog, Atlanta, GA labels to the back and previous collections inventory number, but otherwise apparently unmarked.

Note: Thomas Pitt of Ewerne Stepleton, Dorset (English, 1653-1726), served as president of Fort St. John in colonial Madras. He is known for acquiring a 140.64 carat diamond which was renamed as the Pitt Diamond, eventually sold to Philppe II, Duke of Orleans and became known as the Regent Diamond. See also Christie's, The Hodroff Collection, Part II Chinese Export Porcelain From The Collection Of Leo & Doris Hodroff, New York, January 23, 2008, lot 378.

Provenance: Private Collection of Sherwood Preece, Atlanta, GA.

Approximate dimensions: h. 1.75", dia. 15.75"

Firing and glaze imperfections, minor gilt loss, no apparent chips, cracks, or restorations when examined under ultraviolet light.