Preliminary identification

Chinese Porcelain Coral-Ground Famille Verte 'Qilin' Vase

Photo reference

5 uploaded photos

Overview

A striking Chinese porcelain vase featuring a vibrant coral-red ground decorated with mythical qilin amidst stylized clouds. The neck and foot are adorned with underglaze blue ruyi and scroll borders, creating a dramatic contrast with the overglaze enamels of the body.

Story

In Chinese folklore, the qilin is a benevolent beast whose arrival signals the birth of a great ruler or sage. This vase, with its fiery coral background, was crafted during a time of intense cultural transition to bring protective energy and prestige into a grand home.

Maker / Origin

While the base shows a highly faded, illegible blue mark, this piece was produced in the historic kilns of Jingdezhen. This city has served as the porcelain capital of the world for over a millennium, housing workshops that supplied both the imperial court and wealthy merchants.

Condition & Value

The photos show some minor enamel loss, surface scratches, and typical firing imperfections. There is also some wear to the gilt highlights on the rim. Overall, the structure appears intact without major visible cracks or restoration, which is excellent for its age.

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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.