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Chinese brass vases - pair

Profile picture for user Daowlis1951
By Daowlis1951, 7 May, 2025
Description

Bronze or brass vases 22 cm (9 inches) high.

Category
General Antiques and Collectibles
Medium
Shiny brass shows on raised figures caused thru handling
Distinguishing marks
Chinese stamp on bases
Condition
Good
Size and dimensions of this item
22 cm or 9 inches
Weight
About 600 grams each
History
Purchased from antique shop in Melaka, Malaysia
For Sale?
Yes
Photos
Profile picture for user Charley

Charley

5 hours 15 min ago

Pair of Chinese Brass or Bronze Vases with Qianlong Marks

Item Description:

  • Item: Pair of Chinese vases
  • Material: Appears to be brass or bronze, based on coloration and oxidation
  • Height: Approx. 22 cm (9 inches)
  • Weight: About 600 grams each
  • Decorative Features: Relief-carved figures and foliage with Chinese calligraphy inscriptions
  • Condition: Good; brass patina is visible with wear from handling that reveals brighter high points

Distinguishing Marks:

  • The mark on the base reads 乾隆幓制 (Qianlong Nian Zhi), which translates to "Made in the Qianlong Period." This is a common reign mark referring to the Qianlong Emperor (1736–1795) of the Qing Dynasty.
  • However, it’s important to note that many such marks were used well after the Qianlong period as honorific or stylistic tributes, especially on 20th-century export or decorative pieces.

Additional Inscriptions:

  • The side of the vase features Chinese characters including 鹤鹿攐椿, a poetic combination of symbols often referring to longevity and prosperity (cranes, deer, and Chinese parasol trees being traditional auspicious motifs).

Historical Context:

  • The vases were acquired in Melaka (Malacca), Malaysia, a location historically linked with Chinese trade and craftsmanship, especially in the early to mid-20th century.
  • Given the aging, patina, and casting technique, these are likely 20th-century decorative export pieces rather than Qing originals.
  • The use of the Qianlong mark is common in Republic period (1912–1949) or even mid-century decorative wares meant for the global antique and tourist market.

šŸ· Estimated Value (as of 2025):

Condition

Value Estimate (for the pair)

Good

$80 – $150 USD

 

Factors that support the valuation:

  • Attractive form and desirable height for display
  • Pair set increases collectibility
  • Decorative but not museum-grade antiques
  • Qianlong mark adds perceived value, but it is likely apocryphal

šŸ” Recommendation:

If you suspect the vases could be earlier (e.g., late Qing Dynasty), or if they're part of a larger set or estate, a professional appraisal or thermoluminescence/metal content analysis could help clarify authenticity and potentially increase value. Otherwise, for resale or insurance purposes, the current estimate should suffice.

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