Overview
A striking cobalt blue and cream glazed ceramic garden stool modeled as a caparisoned elephant in the 'fahua' style. It features intricate openwork panels and the traditional 'Shou' symbol, representing longevity and good fortune.
Preliminary identification
Vintage Cobalt Blue and White Ceramic Elephant Garden Stool
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Story
Elephants with their trunks raised have been cherished as symbols of prosperity and 'showering' good luck across Asia for centuries. During the mid-to-late 20th century, these ceramic pachyderms became an essential element of the 'Hollywood Regency' design…
Maker / Origin
While likely produced in a specialized ceramic workshop in a region like Shiwan or Jingdezhen, this piece follows the long tradition of Chinese export porcelain.
Condition & Value
The piece appears to be in good vintage condition with no visible structural cracks. There are minor glaze skips and typical wear on the unglazed 'toes' and base, which is expected for a heavy ceramic item of this age. Maintaining the integrity of the pierced scrollwork is key to 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 compsRegional auction
· Jun 2024Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
$1,280
SOLD
Dealer archive
· Mar 2024Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
$1,450
SOLD
Marketplace sale
· Jan 2024Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
$980
SOLD
Estate platform
· Oct 2023Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
$1,150
SOLD
Auction result
· Aug 2023Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.
$1,375
SOLD