Skip to main content
Home

Main navigation

  • Free Appraisals
    • Get a Free Appraisal
    • View Appraisals
    • Local Appraisers
  • Classifieds
  • Blog
  • Shows
    • Antique Shows, Flea Markets, & Swap Meets Map
    • Upcoming Shows
User Menu
  • Login
  • Help
  • Register

Breadcrumb

  1. Home

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

3 weeks 2 days 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 乾隆年制 (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 鹤鹿桐椿, 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.

🏷 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

🔍 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.

No votes yet
  • Log in or register to post comments

Today’s Featured Blog

Beyond the Price Tag: The Hidden Factors That Influence Antique and Collectible Value

More Blog articles…

Recent Appraisals

  • Dancing Jew Judaica Painting by Henryc Hechtkopf
  • *Rare St. Etienne 1718 Double-Barrel Flintlock Gun Replica – Collectible Display Piece
  • WWII Ship hatch cover table idk exactly but roughly 24"x18". The red was a washable paint for kids art project
  • Vintage MCM Lane “Cosmopolitan” Round Walnut and Tile Coffee Table – 40"
  • Lane Furniture Mid-century End Table, Cosmopolitan Line
  • Postage Stamp 2 cent
  • The Trio
  • Baker camelback loveseat
  • Japanese Porcelain Teacups and Saucers
  • Burger Chef Promotional Flying Disc
See more appraisals…

Recent Appraisal Comments

  • “Dancing Jew” by Henryk Hechtkopf (c. 1950s–60s)
  • St. Etienne 1718 Double-Barrel Flintlock Gun Replica – Display
  • WWII-Era Ship Hatch Cover End Table
  • Vintage Mid-Century Modern Lane “Cosmopolitan” Coffee Table
  • Lane Furniture Mid-Century Modern End Table – Cosmopolitan Line
  • U.S. 2-Cent George Washington (Red)
  • "The Trio" by Ronald P. Mack
  • Baker Furniture Camelback Loveseat
  • Would love to know more…
  • Japanese Hand-Painted Porcelain Teacups and Saucers

Recent Blog Articles

  • Beyond the Price Tag: The Hidden Factors That Influence Antique and Collectible Value
  • Beyond the Price Tag: Unlocking the Hidden Stories in Your Family Heirlooms
  • Antiques as an Investment: Beyond the Hype, What's Actually Worth It?
  • Is it Real or Just Really Old? Your Guide to Spotting Fake Antiques (and How to Protect Yourself)
  • Beyond the Dust: Unearthing the Stories Behind Your Antiques (and Why Knowing Matters)
  • Unlocking Time's Treasures: Your Essential Vintage Watch Value Guide
  • Navigating the Dip: Smart Strategies for Selling Your Antiques, Collectibles, and Art in a Down Market

More Blog articles…

© 1995- InstAppraisal™, Inc. All Rights Reserved Worldwide
Privacy Policy & Terms and Conditions of Use