Vase - Porzellan - China - Qing Dynastie (1644-1911) (Ohne mindestpreis)

ANCIENT CHINA | Pair of Famille Rose Export Vases with Relief Dragons – Canton, Late Qing Dynasty

This highly decorative and collectible pair of Chinese porcelain vases originates from Southern China, Canton (Guangzhou) and dates to the late Qing Dynasty, circa 1880–1900. Executed in the refined and richly colored Famille Rose palette, the vases are exemplary of high-quality Chinese export porcelain made for the European and international market around 1900.

Both vases are hand-painted with elegant figural palace scenes, depicting refined courtly figures in architectural settings, surrounded by dense floral scrolls, birds, and auspicious decorative reserves. The vivid enamels—rose pink, emerald green, turquoise, iron red, and soft yellow—are harmoniously balanced and enhanced by carefully applied gilding.

A particularly striking feature is the applied sculptural dragon decoration at the necks. These relief dragons, partially gilt, add a strong three-dimensional presence and symbolic power, as dragons are traditionally associated with prosperity, protection, and authority in Chinese culture. Such applied elements are characteristic of higher-grade Canton porcelain and were intended to elevate the visual and tactile appeal of the pieces.

The elegant baluster form with flaring mouth is well proportioned and confidently potted. The bases are unglazed and unmarked, entirely consistent with Chinese export porcelain of this period.

A Charming and Desirable Detail

While clearly conceived and presented as a pair, one vase is very slightly fuller in profile than the other—a subtle and charming variation that reflects authentic hand production rather than industrial uniformity. Among collectors, such gentle individuality is often appreciated as it underscores the artisanal nature of late Qing export porcelain and gives the pair a distinctive, human character.

Seize: ca. 6 x 6 x 15 cm. Weight: 242 & 272 grams

Condition

Very good condition for age

No visible cracks or structural damage

No apparent restorations

Minor wear and light surface rubbing consistent with age and handling

The vases form a visually harmonious and attractive pair with excellent display presence.

Collecting & Market Context

Late Qing Famille Rose Canton porcelain with applied relief decoration, offered as a matched pair, remains highly sought after by collectors in Europe, the United States, and Asia. Comparable examples appear regularly in international auctions and continue to attract strong bidding interest, particularly when condition, color freshness, and decorative richness align as they do here.

Why this lot appeals to collectors

Authentic late Qing Dynasty Chinese export porcelain

Rich Famille Rose enamels with excellent color retention

Rare applied dragon relief decoration

Decorative figural palace scenes

Offered as a pair, with charming hand-crafted individuality

Ideal for both collection and refined interior display

A refined and characterful pair of Chinese export vases, combining symbolism, craftsmanship, and decorative elegance—an excellent opportunity for collectors of Chinese porcelain and Asian export art.