Chinese Porcelain Mini Vase

Small Chinese porcelain vase with hand-painted figures and floral patterns, red bands - view 1

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Average (4/10)

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QUICK FACTS

DESCRIPTION

A small, decorative porcelain vase featuring hand-painted designs. The vase has a white glaze foundation with vibrant overglaze enamels in red, pink, green, and black, depicting figures in traditional attire amidst floral and garden motifs. The rim and base are banded in red with white dot detailing.

CULTURAL ECHOES

Where This Object Echoes

Japanese Porcelain17th-20th Century

Similar forms and decorative motifs with figures and nature scenes can be found in Japanese Arita ware or Kutani ware, reflecting shared East Asian aesthetic principles.

Ritual & Ceremonial Use

•Display as a decorative object in a domestic setting, often as part of a collection on a scholar's desk or shelf.
•Gift-giving, particularly among merchants or diplomatic circles, as Chinese porcelain was highly valued globally.

Meaning Through Time

19th Century (Qing Dynasty)

These types of items were indicative of growing trade with the West, showcasing traditional Chinese artistry adapted for diverse markets.

Modern Era

Often valued as antique collectibles, appreciated for their historical and artistic merit, though sometimes viewed as generic 'export ware'.

HISTORICAL STORY

Miniature vases and snuff bottles have a long tradition in Chinese decorative arts, often serving as collectible ornaments or sometimes for practical uses like holding snuff. The style of painting with figures and floral elements is common in Chinese export porcelain, which was produced for both domestic and international markets.

DID YOU KNOW?

Small decorative vases like this were often part of larger 'hundred antiques' or 'scholarly objects' collections, symbolizing erudition and good taste.

The art of porcelain making in China dates back thousands of years, with intricate painting techniques evolving over centuries to include a wide range of colors and styles.

MATERIAL & CONDITION

Surface

The surface is glossy and smooth, characteristic of glazed porcelain. The painted areas have a slightly raised feel typical of overglaze enamels. There are visible signs of wear on the painted surfaces and edges.

Weight & Feel

Likely light and delicate due to its small size and porcelain material.

Condition

The vase shows signs of use, primarily light wear and rubbing on the painted areas and edges, consistent with its age and handling. No major cracks or chips are visible, indicating good structural integrity.

RARITY ANALYSIS

Average55-70%

CommonLegendary

Typical antique shop fare. Requires some searching but regularly available. This is where most genuine antiques fall.

Typical Characteristics

Standard antique shop items
Regularly available
Moderate collector interest

ESTIMATED VALUE

$50 - $150

Updated: Jan 17, 2026

Market comparables from auctions & retail
Condition, completeness & craftsmanship
Current collector demand & trends
Low = quick sale, high = patient seller

For informational purposes only, not a formal appraisal.

CONTEXT ANALYSIS

How your provided context compares with Curiosa.com scanner findings.

What Aligned

User stated 'Chinees' (Chinese origin), which aligns with the visual evidence of traditional Chinese decorative motifs and porcelain style.
User stated '19e eeuw' (19th century), which is consistent with the characteristics of the painting style and porcelain often produced during that period.
User mentioned 'Gebruikssporen' (signs of use), which aligns with the visible wear and rubbing on the painted surface and edges.