Miniature Cloisonné Vase with Peonies
Decorative art, Miniature vase • Anonymous workshop, likely Jingfa (Beijing) or similar Chinese export factory.
Style & Movement
Traditional Chinese Decorative Art in the 'Famille Rose' palette style.
Medium & Technique
Cloisonné enamel on brass or copper base, utilizing wire filaments to separate colored glass pastes (enamel), followed by firing and polishing to a smooth finish.
Creation Period
Modern period, likely mid-to-late 20th century (c. 1950-1980).
Dimensions & Format
Miniature format; estimated height between 3.5 to 5 inches (9-13 cm). Three-dimensional baluster shape.
Subject Description
Small baluster-shaped vessel decorated with floral motifs, specifically a large stylized pink peony (symbolizing prosperity and honor) surrounded by green foliage and scrolls. The rim and base are defined by dark borders, likely black or deep blue enamel.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good/Very Good; the enamel appears intact from the primary view, though the top rim shows some darkening typical of aged brass oxidation.
Estimated Market Value
$25 - $60 USD
Auction Estimate
$15 - $40 USD
Provenance History
Unknown; likely a mass-produced export item sold for the international decorative market via gift shops or import-export firms.
Art Historical Significance
While not a unique museum-tier artifact, it represents the continuation of the Ming and Qing dynasty enamel traditions into the modern industrial era, showcasing the globalization of Chinese craft.
Notable Features
Features a 'hundred flowers' (wan hua) influenced design scaled down for a miniature format; the heavy use of pink and green indicates a modern interpretation of the 18th-century porcelain palettes.
Condition Issues
Possible surface pitting (common in lower-grade enamel), minor oxidation of the exposed metal wire/rims, and potential 'flea bites' or tiny chips in the glass enamel near the neck.
Conservation Recommendations
Keep in a stable environment with low humidity to prevent metal corrosion. Clean only with a soft, dry cotton cloth; avoid chemical cleaners that can etch the glass surface.