CHINESE EXPORT BLUE & WHITE ANTIQUE PORCELAIN VASE, C. 1920

This Exquisite Hand Painted Underglaze Blue & White Porcelain Vase Was Manufactured In China And Is Termed "Chinese Export". The approximate date of this vase would be 1920. This fabulous 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: This kind of great blue and white porcelain 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 three 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 is simply a great decorator piece even if one is not a collector.

However as blue & white collectors, we certainly would like to see it go into a private collection where it would be with its relatives and would not be alone to show off for the wrong reasons. Over the years, it has given us immense joy and tranquility to steer at it across the dining room over a morning coffee as the sunlight danced across the room.

We are sure you too will enjoy this fabulous piece as much as we have once you sign the adoption papers and decide to give it a wonderful home for many years to come. 

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