Size: 5.3 cm.(L)
The plaque is decorated on one side with a central panel containing the characters‘zhai jie’ surrounded by finely painted famille-rose floral scroll against a turquoise ground, the reverse similarly decorated, with inscribed Manchu script in the central cartouche, all within raised gilt moulded borders.
Plaques like this were worn during periods of fasting, the term ‘zhaijie’ refers to the requirement for abstinence for three days prior to worshipping of ancestors, Heaven or other gods. Abstinence plaques were made in various materials, including jade, bamboo, painted enamel and porcelain.
PROVENANCE:
Christie's Hong Kong Spring Sale 2011, lot 3892