The History of Chinese Porcelain in the West with Steven J. Chait

Steven J. Chait examines the history of Chinese porcelain in the West from the mid-16th century through the early 19th century. Starting with the origins of porcelain as we know it today, Chait will look at decorative trends over time with examples drawn from the main styles associated with Chinese porcelain: Kraak ware, Blanc de Chine, Wucai, Famille Verte, and Famille Rose. This illustrated talk for the Nantucket Historical Association is part of the celebration of the 2022 "Asian Treasures from the Billings Collection" exhibition now open at the Nantucket Whaling Museum. Learn more about the exhibition at https://nha.org/whats-on/exhibitions/.... Steven J. Chait is president of Ralph M. Chait Galleries, Inc. in New York City. The gallery, founded by Steven’s grandfather, Ralph M. Chait, in 1910, is the oldest specialist dealing in fine antique Chinese porcelains and works of art in the United States. The gallery today works with early ceramics, hardstone carvings, scholar’s rocks, and China Trade objects. It maintains a special focus on Ming and Qing porcelains, both in Chinese and Western taste, with a strong emphasis on the Kangxi period and 18th century. The gallery is a long-time exhibitor at major antique fairs in the United States including the Winter Show, the Philadelphia Show, the Delaware Antiques Show, and the Nantucket Summer Antiques Show.