CHINESE EXPORT BLUE AND WHITE VINTAGE PORCELAIN VASE

This lovely vintage hand painted underglaze blue & white porcelain vase was manufactured in china and is termed Chinese Export. The approximate date of this vase would be circa 1970-1980. This very interesting vase is signed in Chinese characters which is illustrated in the second last photo.

One of the most popular types of vase in China from late Sung times to the eighteen century was that which is known today as “mei ping”, a vase of baluster shape with a short neck. This type of vase originally was used as storage jars, and later was used to hold a spray of flowering plum blossom. The floral decoration may be thought of as peonies, were it not for the tendrils. On the other hand it could be looked at as lotus scrolls. The signature in six characters is illustrated in “Oriental Blue & White” by Sir Harry Garner, page 23.

This vase is totally hand painted in underglaze blue. This painting on porcelain in underglaze cobalt blue is what became known today as blue and white. It has been the most prolific of all forms of ceramic decoration. Its history is linked with Chinese porcelain of the Ming period; and its great vogue of popularity dates from the fourteen century when China began exporting it in great quantities because of the mass appeal by overseas markets. 

COMMENT: The antique version of this blue and white porcelain vase has always been held in high esteem by the wealthy and collectors of fine export porcelains for many years. Chinese export porcelains from many centuries have been avidly collected by private collectors as well as museums who eagerly seek after them. 

Having been one of the largest dealers and collectors of "blue & white" in Canada, over the past twenty five years, we guess we have a prejudice in that a wonderful piece of blue and white china in ones home always lends an air of charm, sophistication and wealth even if it is just something with which to decorate. Such a piece as this rendition is simply a great decorator piece. The antique version of this vase if it dated circa 1900-1920 would fetch approximately $5,000.00

CONDITION: This vase is in excellent condition. The slight discoloration near the bottom is totally native to this clay composition and also lends an air of credence to the origin of this porcelain, which is a commonality in Chinese porcelains. There are no damages or restorations.