unique cloisonne vase

Item Summary

• Type: Decorative Cloisonné Vase
• Origin: Likely Chinese, possibly mid-20th century (Republic or early PRC period)
• Height: ~9 inches
• Diameter: ~3 inches
• Weight: Over 1 lb
• Materials: Copper or bronze base with enamel cloisonné over metal
• Designs: Cranes, lotus blossoms, peonies, clouds, and stylized floral bands
• Base: Bright blue enamel interior with a central hole, typical of cloisonné over metal, not ceramic

🔍 Description & Features

This is a Chinese cloisonné vase, featuring traditional enamel-over-metal technique with finely wired compartments filled with vividly colored enamel. The imagery includes:

• Red-crowned cranes, a classic Chinese symbol of longevity and peace
• Lotus blossoms and peonies, representing purity, wealth, and high social status
• Scalloped ruyi cloud border patterns and traditional floral scrollwork
• The base has a signature turquoise or royal blue enamel – consistent with authentic cloisonné ware from Beijing workshops

The vase shows fine workmanship, with clear, tight wirework (cloisons), and even enamel fill – an indicator of good quality.

🕰️ Estimated Date

• Likely Period: Republic of China (1912–1949) or early PRC export era (1950s–1970s)
• Style Clues:
  • The patterning is slightly looser than 19th-century Qing dynasty pieces, with brighter colors and broader outlines
  • The blue enamel base and visible hole are standard in mid-century cloisonné, made for both export and domestic display
  • No reign mark or factory stamp indicates it's not an imperial piece but made for decorative or export purposes

🧾 Valuation (As of 2025)

Condition

Value Estimate

Excellent (as shown)

$100 – $200 USD

With Provenance or Pair

$200 – $400 USD

Antique Qing Dynasty equivalent

$400 – $1,000+ USD

• Market values depend on exact dating, condition, and whether it's part of a matching set (cloisonné was often made in pairs).
• This piece has high display appeal and good quality, but without a mark or guaranteed pre-20th-century origin, it's valued as a decorative mid-century export piece.

✅ Authentication & Recommendations

• Authenticity: Based on the images, it is authentic cloisonné, likely hand-crafted in China.
• Material Note: The body is most likely copper or bronze, not ceramic (a common misunderstanding with cloisonné).
• Appraisal Needed?: For resale, insurance, or if you suspect it could be Qing-era, a professional appraiser or Asian art specialist could give you a firmer date and valuation.

🛍️ Not for Sale (Current Status)

If you ever do decide to sell, strong venues would include:

• Etsy or eBay (Vintage/Asian Décor)
• Auction houses that specialize in Asian Decorative Arts
• Local antique dealers with an interest in Chinese export items