Chinese brass and jade box

Item Description:
A round, mixed-media decorative box composed of an ornately engraved brass base with a fitted lid made from intricately carved pale jade, featuring a floral or vine motif. The box measures approximately 6 1/2 inches in diameterand 2 1/4 inches tall. The base is stamped "CHINE", indicating French import, which helps date the piece.

Medium:

• Base: Brass with finely incised vine or foliate engraving
• Lid: Light celadon to pale green carved jade, possibly nephrite
• Finial: Jade, carved in a classic knob shape

Markings:

• The word "CHINE" on the base is a French import mark, indicating the item was made in China for export to the French-speaking market. This type of marking was commonly used from the late 19th century through the early 20th century (approx. 1890–1930).

Estimated Age:

• Circa 1900–1925, likely Republic Period (post-Qing dynasty, early 20th century)
• The craftsmanship and materials are consistent with items made for export during that period, especially those combining traditional Chinese decorative motifs with European market demands

Condition:

• Excellent, as described and confirmed via images
• No visible cracks or chips in the jade; brass retains its decorative engraving and natural patina
• Lid appears to sit flush with base, and knob is intact

Current Market Value (2024):

Retail/Decorative Value:

• $250 – $450 USD depending on buyer interest and market
• Higher-end valuation if jade is confirmed to be high-quality nephrite or if the carving is particularly fine

Auction Estimate:

• $150 – $300 USD at general estate or decorative arts auction
• Could fetch more in an Asian art-specific sale with better attribution or confirmed jade quality

Comparable Sales:

• Similar Chinese export brass/jade boxes have sold on sites like LiveAuctioneers, Invaluable, and eBay in the $180–$600 range depending on age, jade type, and provenance

Historical and Decorative Appeal:

This box is a representative example of Chinese export decorative arts from the early 20th century. These types of pieces were produced for Western markets, blending Chinese artistry with functionality. The hand-engraved brass and pierced jade lid are hallmarks of quality.

Recommendations:

1. Professional Appraisal Suggested If:

• You plan to insure it as part of a larger collection
• You want to confirm whether the jade is nephrite or jadeite, as this can significantly affect value
• You consider selling it through a fine auction house (e.g., Bonhams, Christie's, or a specialist Asian arts dealer)

2. Maintenance:

• Keep away from acidic cleaners
• Clean gently with a microfiber cloth; avoid polishing the brass to maintain its original patina, which collectors often value

Summary:

This is a well-preserved, elegant early 20th-century Chinese export box, made of brass and pale carved jade, likely created for the French market. Its condition, style, and material make it desirable to collectors of Asian antiques, decorative arts, and jade objects.