Preliminary identification

Chinese Famille Rose 'Jurentang Zhi' Floral Vase

Photo reference

4 uploaded photos

Overview

A monumental 48cm Chinese porcelain vase decorated in vibrant famille rose (fencai) enamels, featuring an intricate composition of chrysanthemums, plum blossoms, and calligraphic poetry. The base bears the iron-red four-character seal mark 'Jurentang Zhi' (Made for the Hall of Benevolence Residence), a mark of exceptional historical prestige.

Story

In 1916, Yuan Shikai declared himself Emperor of China, establishing the short-lived Hongxian dynasty. He commissioned exquisite imperial-quality porcelains marked 'Jurentang Zhi'—his personal palace residence—sparking a legendary legacy of high-art revivals.

Maker / Origin

The 'Jurentang' mark represents the Hall of Benevolent Residence within the Zhongnanhai imperial palace complex in Beijing. While the original 1916 production run was incredibly brief, elite Jingdezhen workshops continued to produce highly refined, master-painted tribute wares bearing this mark throughout the Republic period to satisfy the demands of discerning collectors.

Condition & Value

The vase appears to be in very good condition with vibrant enamels and no obvious cracks or major structural repairs visible in the photos. There is a minor glaze imperfection or small flake near the inner rim of the mouth, which is common in hand-fired wares and does not significantly detract from its value.

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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Market Analysis

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.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.