A Chinese Imari-style charger with the arms of Thomas Pitt for the American market, Kangxi

Dia.: 32,5 cm

This charger is attributed to a documentary service with the arms of Pitt, one of the three earliest Chinese pieces decorated with British arms and the first true service of plates and dishes. Made for Thomas 'Diamond' Pitt, notorious rebel private trader in India and later East India Company Governor of St. George, Madras, whose son, Thomas Pitt Lord Londonderry, and grandson, William Pitt the Elder, Earl of Chatham and Prime Minister, both had fine and unique services.

Ref.:
- David Sanctuary Howard, Chinese Armorial Porcelain (Faber & Faber, 1974), Vol. 1, p. 176, and in colour p. 114.
- Angela Howard, 'The Pitt Services: Porcelain for a Political Dynasty,' American Circle Journal, Vol. 18, pp. 50-81, similar dish illustrated p. 54.
- Christie's, New York, Jan. 18, 2018, lot 108, for a pair of large dishes from this service. (sold USD 27.500) (link)
- Christie's, New York, Jan. 25, 2011, lot 276, for a large dish from this service. (sold USD 9.375) (link)