Preliminary identification
Photo reference
4 uploaded photos
Overview
An exceptionally large and vibrant Chinese porcelain fish basin decorated in the Famille Rose palette, featuring a dense landscape of cranes, peaches, and peonies. The rim is heavily gilded with relief-molded dragons, and the interior is coated in a brilliant turquoise glaze, complete with an apocryphal four-character Yongzheng mark on the base.
Story
Cranes have symbolized longevity in China for millennia, but depicting exactly one hundred of them was a visual wish for eternal life reserved for imperial celebrations. This massive basin recreates that grand courtly tradition.
Maker / Origin
While bearing a Yongzheng reign mark (1723–1735), this basin was crafted in the late 20th century by highly skilled revival artisans in Jingdezhen, China's historic porcelain capital. These workshops specialized in recreating the complex, multi-fired masterpieces of the Qing dynasty for a modern global market.
Condition & Value
The basin appears to be in excellent condition with no visible cracks, hairline fractures, or major chips. There is minor, expected wear to the gilding on the upper rim and handles, which is typical for decorative display pieces of this size. Excellent preservation of the enamel colors.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.