Preliminary identification

Vintage Chinese Electric Ceramic Herbal Medicine Decoction Pot

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

This is a vintage electric ceramic pot specifically designed for decocting traditional Chinese herbal medicine (TCM). It features a charming, classic illustration of a young boy fanning a traditional clay medicine pot over a charcoal brazier, contrasting the ancient practice with modern electric convenience.

Story

For centuries, families brewed bitter herbal remedies over open flames for hours. In the late 20th century, this electric pot revolutionized households by automating the process. The illustration pays homage to the 'medicine boy' of ancient folklore.

Maker / Origin

While marked with characters reading 'Fujitsu' (富士通), this is not the Japanese tech giant, but rather a Chinese domestic brand of home appliances from the late 20th century. These manufacturers specialized in blending traditional culinary and medical needs with modern heating elements.

Condition & Value

The exterior ceramic body and transfer print appear to be in good, clean condition with no visible cracks or major chips. The plastic base and indicator lights are intact, though the power cord is not visible in the photo. Untested electrical components and any interior staining from herbal use will affect the final value.

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
$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.