Blue and White Bird and Peony Baluster Vase
Decorative art, Ceramic vessel • Anonymous workshop, likely Jingdezhen, China or Japanese export
Style & Movement
Chinoiserie / Export Porcelain in the Ming-Qing decorative revival style
Medium & Technique
Hand-painted blue underglaze on white porcelain; high-fire glaze with cobalt pigment
Creation Period
Late 20th century to modern era (likely 1970-1990s)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 10-12 inches (25-30 cm) in height; Baluster-form vase with a flared rim.
Subject Description
Traditional 'Bird and Flower' motif featuring two birds perched on a flowering peony branch, symbolizing wealth and high status. Includes Ruyi-head borders at the neck and a stylized lotus petal band at the base.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good; showing some surface dust and minor glaze imperfections consistent with domestic display.
Estimated Market Value
$40 - $80 USD
Auction Estimate
$20 - $50 USD
Provenance History
Unknown; typical of mass-produced export wares sold through mid-to-late 20th-century department stores or import boutiques.
Art Historical Significance
Low art historical significance; the piece is a functional decorative object that replicates historical Chinese aesthetics for the Western interior design market.
Notable Features
Features a 'crackle' or crazed glaze appearance which may be intentional to simulate age; the underglaze blue is applied with varying saturation to mimic traditional painterly shading.
Condition Issues
Crazing visible in the glaze, surface staining, and potential kiln soot spots (pinholes) indicative of non-imperial, production-line firing.
Conservation Recommendations
Periodic cleaning with pH-neutral detergent and distilled water; avoid abrasive cleaners to preserve the glaze integrity.