Mandarin Duck Vase Appraisal

Chinese Porcelain Vase with Famille Rose Mandarin Duck and Lotus Decoration

This item is a ceramic vase, likely porcelain, characterized by its deep green ground color and vibrant famille rose enamel decoration. The primary decorative motif appears to be a pair of mandarin ducks, symbolizing fidelity and love, depicted among lotus leaves and other aquatic flora. The ducks are rendered with a rich palette of pinks, yellows, light blues, and variegated green, brown, and gold tones on their plumage. The lotus leaves are painted in various shades of green with pink accents on their edges. The bottom rim of the vase shows significant wear and grime, indicating age and use. The base is unglazed and dirty, consistent with its function as a resting surface. A prominent feature on the base is a red, square-shaped seal mark, likely apocryphal, which appears to be a Qianlong Nian Zhi (Qianlong Period Make) mark. Given the style of decoration, particularly the vibrant enamels and the dark green ground, this vase exhibits characteristics often associated with later Qing Dynasty or Republic Period export wares, possibly dating from the late 19th to early 20th century. The craftsmanship appears to be of good quality, with clear lines and rich color application. There are no immediately visible cracks or large chips from the provided image, but the general condition indicates age-appropriate wear and some surface dirt accumulation.