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You’ve heard stories of people finding old Chinese vases worth millions of dollars in their attics—how can you tell if you’ve got a valuable one on your hands, too? An expert appraiser can tell you exactly what it’s worth, but you can determine whether a vase is authentic and potentially worth something yourself when you know about the popular styles and production methods used throughout Chinese ceramic history. In this article, we’ll walk you through the major indicators that a vase is genuine and a possible money-maker. If you’re ready to brush up on your art history, read on!
Things You Should Know
- Examine the shape, color, glaze, and reign mark on the vase. If they all date to the same dynasty or era, the vase is likely authentic.
- Look for signs of genuine aging like tiny rust spots, glaze contractions, or yellowing crackles. The glaze and paint should be intact.
- Ask for a certified certificate of authenticity or provenance before purchasing an antique Chinese vase.
Steps
Expert Q&A
Video
Tips
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Pick an era to specialize in and study its artistry and production techniques to develop a feel for authentic characteristics. These skills will help you recognize forgery with modern equipment, too.[15]Thanks
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Be wary of the availability of rare vases. Highly valuable styles won’t be available in large quantities or at unreputable dealerships, for example.[16]Thanks
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Alway purchase vases from reputable dealers or auction houses that can provide certified provenance.[17]Thanks
References
- ↑ https://news.artnet.com/art-world/a-beginners-guide-to-chinese-porcelain-vase-shapes-31882
- ↑ https://www.invaluable.com/blog/chinese-vases-price-guide/
- ↑ https://news.illinois.edu/view/6367/700500
- ↑ https://news.illinois.edu/view/6367/700500
- ↑ https://bidamount.com/dating-chinese-porcelain-by-the-foot-rims
- ↑ https://www.chinahighlights.com/travelguide/culture/china-porcelain.htm
- ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WJ9dZGNBHF8
- ↑ https://www.chinese-antique-porcelain.com/porcelain-age-signs.html
- ↑ https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/asian-art-week-fine-chinese-ceramics
- ↑ https://easternartconsultants.com/2018/06/listen-to-the-object-important-strategies-for-dating-appraising-and-identifying-fake-chinese-ceramics/
- ↑ https://easternartconsultants.com/2018/06/listen-to-the-object-important-strategies-for-dating-appraising-and-identifying-fake-chinese-ceramics/
- ↑ https://www.chinahighlights.com/travelguide/culture/china-porcelain.htm
- ↑ https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/asian-art-week-fine-chinese-ceramics
- ↑ https://easternartconsultants.com/2018/06/listen-to-the-object-important-strategies-for-dating-appraising-and-identifying-fake-chinese-ceramics/
- ↑ https://www.gardinermuseum.on.ca/real-fake-spot-authentic-chinese-blue-white-porcelain/
- ↑ https://easternartconsultants.com/2018/06/listen-to-the-object-important-strategies-for-dating-appraising-and-identifying-fake-chinese-ceramics/
- ↑ https://www.gardinermuseum.on.ca/real-fake-spot-authentic-chinese-blue-white-porcelain/