A very rare Chinese Export biblical subject dish for the European market, Early Qianlong Era, Circa 1740 of quatre lobe form, executed in en grisaille enamels depicting Moses, striking the rock, with his brother Aaron, the rim with a gilt scroll border. Most likely from a private commissioned service. The subject matter comes from the Old Testament, specifically Numbers 20:8, which describes how God instructed Moses to speak to the rock to bring forth water for the Israelites; instead, Moses struck the rock with his staff, displeasing God greatly. For his disobedience, Moses was forbidden by God from entering the promised land. 6 1/2 in. Long, 5 1/4 in. Wide. Reference: For another example, see F. Hervouet & Y. Bruneau, La Porcelaine des Compagnie des Indes a Decor Occidental, p. 260, fig. 11.6.

Additional comments added on 3/4/2022: Moses does have some wear on face, however piece does present very well Some wear to gilt