Preliminary identification

Hand-Painted Nippon Porcelain Rose Vase with Gilded Scroll Handles

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

A classic example of Japanese export porcelain featuring lush, hand-painted cabbage roses and ornate gilded scroll handles.

Story

In 1891, the United States passed the McKinley Tariff Act, requiring all imported goods to be marked with their country of origin in English. This gave birth to the 'Nippon' mark, turning a simple geographical label into a legendary brand for collectors.

Maker / Origin

While many associate this style with Noritake (then Morimura Bros), it was actually produced by a network of highly skilled independent kilns.

Condition & Value

The gilding on the handles shows light rubbing consistent with age, but the painted floral panels appear vibrant and well-preserved. There is no evidence of the 'crazing' or spider-web cracking often found in older porcelain. Significant wear to the gold or hidden chips on the base would reduce the value by approximately 25%.

Full Research

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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

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

$1,280

SOLD

Dealer archive

· Mar 2024

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

$1,450

SOLD

Marketplace sale

· Jan 2024

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

$980

SOLD

Estate platform

· Oct 2023

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

$1,150

SOLD

Auction result

· Aug 2023

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.

$1,375

SOLD