A Large and Unusual Turquoise Glazed Porcelain Cat
清 孔雀綠釉刻毛紋瑞貓像

China, Kangxi period, 1662 to 1722, Qing dynasty

A large and unusual Chinese porcelain figure of a seated cat, modelled alertly on its haunches upon a rectangular plinth. The animal is shown with the rear legs drawn tightly beneath the body and the front legs set upright, giving the figure a poised, watchful presence. This formal, almost heraldic stance is characteristic of early Qing animal sculpture, where natural observation is balanced with a strong decorative silhouette.

The surface is particularly finely worked, with thousands of delicate hand incisions forming dense swirling and starburst patterns to suggest the texture of fur. Over this crisply engraved body is applied a brilliant turquoise, or “peacock green”, glaze, which gathers in the recessed lines and gives the surface remarkable depth and movement. The glaze is especially effective on the angular planes of the body and plinth, catching the light while emphasising the rhythmic patterning beneath.

The face is full of character, with large almond shaped eyes, pricked ears, and a slightly open mouth, probably intended to allow the release of incense smoke. The result is both charming and highly sophisticated, combining playful observation with technical refinement. Such porcelain animals were admired as rare and exotic cabinet pieces in eighteenth century Europe, where Chinese monochrome and biscuit glazed wares were collected by leading patrons, including Madame de Pompadour.

This striking figure is a fine example of Kangxi period decorative porcelain, notable for its scale, unusual subject, lively modelling, and richly worked turquoise glazed surface.