Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
A large and beautifully decorated porcelain fish basin or planter featuring the iconic 'Dayazhai' (Studio of Great Culture) marks. The exterior is hand-painted in vibrant famille rose enamels with a pair of songbirds perched amidst cascading purple wisteria vines and pink peonies.
Story
Commissioned originally for the Empress Dowager Cixi in the late Qing Dynasty, Dayazhai porcelain represents the personal taste of one of China's most powerful women. This bold design of wisteria and birds was her signature aesthetic, symbolizing spring, longevity, and royal elegance.
Maker / Origin
While the original 1870s imperial wares were crafted at the Imperial Kilns in Jingdezhen specifically for Cixi's personal use, their immense popularity sparked a long tradition of high-quality revival pieces. Talented studio potters throughout the late Qing and Republic periods meticulously recreated these imperial designs to satisfy the demands of wealthy merchants and international collectors.
Condition & Value
The basin appears to be in good structural condition with no visible cracks or major chips. There is some minor surface wear, typical firing imperfections in the glaze, and expected dirt/scuffing on the unglazed foot rim. Excellent condition for a utilitarian planter of this size. Value is highly dependent on age.
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.