Miniature Meiping Vase with Foliate Scroll Motifs
Ceramic / Decorative Art; Miniature Porcelain Vase • Likely an artisan from Jingdezhen, China, or a similar center for porcelain production
Style & Movement
Neo-Traditional Chinese / Song Dynasty Cizhou-style revival
Medium & Technique
Porcelain with underglaze or overglaze hand-painted decoration (iron-red or sepia tones) and a clear vitreous glaze
Creation Period
Late 20th Century to early 21st Century (Modern production)
Dimensions & Format
Miniature scale, approximately 3 to 4 inches in height (based on coin comparison) with a tapered meiping silhouette.
Subject Description
The vessel features a classic meiping (plum vase) profile decorated with a continuous flowing foliate scroll. A recursive u-shaped border encircles the shoulder. The imagery symbolizes longevity and vitality.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Excellent; no visible chips, cracks, or crazing based on photographic evidence.
Estimated Market Value
$15 – $45
Auction Estimate
$10 – $30
Provenance History
Likely purchased as at a contemporary boutique or souvenir market specialized in miniature ceramics; no specific inscriptions or labels visible.
Art Historical Significance
Representative of modern Chinese export porcelain and the enduring global appeal of Song Dynasty ceramic shapes and Cizhou-style brushwork in a contemporary miniature format.
Notable Features
Fine brushwork for its scale; high-gloss finish; successful mimicry of historical Cizhou ware aesthetics in a miniature decorative format.
Condition Issues
None visible; minor surface dust and potential shelf wear on the unglazed footring.
Conservation Recommendations
Clean with a soft, lint-free cloth; avoid abrasive cleaners; display in a stable environment away from high-traffic edges due to small size.