Overview
A vibrant porcelain tea service featuring the traditional 'Dragon and Phoenix' motif, heavily accented with bright gold-tone gilding.
Preliminary identification
Mid-Century Chinese Export 'Dragon and Phoenix' Tea Service
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Story
Following the reopening of trade between China and the West in the 1970s, factories began producing 'Zhongguo' (Middle Kingdom) wares that blended ancient imperial symbols with the flashy, metallic aesthetics popular in mid-century home decor.
Maker / Origin
These sets were typically produced in large, state-run porcelain factories in regions like Jingdezhen, known as the 'Porcelain Capital' of the world.
Condition & Value
The set appears to be in very good vintage condition with the gold luster remaining remarkably bright. There is minor evidence of shelf wear on the bottom of the tray, but no visible chips or cracks. To preserve the value, these pieces should never be placed in a dishwasher, as the gold will strip away immediately.
Full Research
See what it's actually worth.
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.
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