Malachite Patina Vase Hello, I purchased this vase at an estate sale in Portland, from a large old home in an affluent neighborhood, whose owners had done a considerable amount of world travel and seemed to have purchased many antiques abroad. I paid a pittance for it, maybe $6 if I remember correctly (so if it's worthless, I won't be terribly disappointed!). It is exactly 9" tall and 1 lb in weight. It is cylindrical and slightly tapered, with three crowded bands on the upper portion and a narrow, hourglass shaped opening/spout. I cannot entirely ascertain its base material but I would guess bronze, judging by the thick and variegated malachite (?) patina that covers it almost entirely. Only the ring of the base remains slightly exposed and appears bronze. There also appears to have formerly been a stamp or insignia at the base that has since worn away. The patina is really beautiful and the colors range from Greta to browns to really deep jades (especially at the top). It is in near perfect condition (assuming the patina is desired). I am certainly no expert but I would guess the vase may be Greek or middle eastern? I'm turning to you to know a little bit more about it. First and foremost, I would love to know if it is authentic. Secondly, I'd like to have a better idea of age, material and origin. Finally, and this may be least important to me, I'd like to have an idea of value or at least a place I could go that could give me a value. Thank you so much for your time! Any info is most appreciated! Reed
