Vase

The system will only allow me to do an appraisal for a single item at a time so this is for the porcelain vase.

Object: Hand-painted porcelain vase
Estimated Origin: Chinese export, 20th century (likely mid-century, circa 1950s–1970s)
Style: Famille Rose / Chinese Canton Enamel Style
Dimensions: Approx. 11.5 inches tall
Material: Glazed porcelain
Markings: Red square seal mark on the base (stylized Chinese characters)
Condition: Excellent, with no visible cracks, chips, or glazing loss

Description and Analysis

This is a vividly hand-painted Chinese porcelain vase featuring a profusion of floral blossoms—peonies, chrysanthemums, plum blossoms—and butterflies, all set against a striking cobalt blue ground. The decoration is characteristic of the "Famille Rose" tradition, which originated in the Qing Dynasty but was revived extensively for export throughout the 20th century.

The floral motifs are outlined in black with vibrant overglaze enamels in pink, yellow, orange, green, and purple—another hallmark of post-Qing Famille Rose export wares. The butterflies symbolize love, joy, and marital bliss in Chinese decorative arts. The broad shoulder, tapered body, and flared neck form are typical of both decorative and functional temple jars and vases.

Base Mark

The red seal mark on the bottom appears to be a stamped or hand-brushed apocryphal mark (possibly imitating Qianlong or other imperial reign marks) commonly found on decorative wares produced for export during the Republic or mid-20th century era. These marks are not usually meant to be authentic indicators of age but rather aesthetic or symbolic additions. The glaze, color palette, and form support a dating of mid-20th century rather than earlier.

Market Value Estimate

Retail (decorative use or giftware markets): $80 – $150
Auction/Fair Market (collector-focused or estate sale): $50 – $100
Note: Values can vary based on regional interest in Chinese export porcelain, particularly floral Famille Rose styles. The excellent condition, bold coloration, and traditional imagery make this piece highly attractive for interior décor, even if it does not date from the Qing period.

Collector Notes

• This vase is an example of the strong tradition of Chinese export porcelain adapted for Western markets in the mid-20th century.
• While not antique in the strictest sense (pre-1900), it is now considered vintage and collectible.
• A pair of such vases would significantly enhance desirability and value.
• The floral and butterfly motifs are especially popular with collectors of chinoiserie and vintage Asian décor.

Authentication and Further Action

This appears to be an authentic Chinese porcelain vase made for export in the mid-1900s. The piece is in excellent display condition and does not require a professional authentication unless intended for high-value resale. However, for insurance or gallery-level valuation, a certified appraiser in Asian decorative arts could provide a formal document.