19th century Chinese vase depicting scholars: Blue on white porcelain

My father purchased this vase in the late 70's or mayby the early 80's from an antiques dealer. I don't know much else about it, except that my father once mentioned  it was" rather old" and that he had "paid a lot for it".

Anyhow, he apparently really valued this object -  notably since it's one of the many asian vases we had at home that was not eventually converted into a lamp stand (My father was a professional lighting designer but also made unique custom lamps for friends and family)

After my father passed away last year I received the vase but I'm not certain I really want to keep it. It is slightly chipped along the upper lip with a small crack running down from the chip, but otherwise it is in rather good condition

I'd like to learn more about it, figure out it's origins, know its worth, etc.before deciding to keep it or sell it.

Any advice would be much appreciated

Fair