Hand-Painted Porcelain Urn Vase with Chrysanthemums

This item is an ornate porcelain urn vase, likely dating to the late 19th or early 20th century, consistent with the Art Nouveau or Aesthetic Movement periods, known for their elaborate botanical designs and decorative forms. The vase features a rectangular base transitioning into a squared-off, bulbous body that tapers upwards slightly before flaring out into a broad, scrolled rim. It is crafted from fine porcelain, primarily smooth and glossy in texture. The base color is an ivory or off-white, providing a soft background for the hand-painted floral decoration. The dominant design consists of large, soft pink and lighter hued chrysanthemum blooms, rendered with delicate brushstrokes that create a sense of depth and realism. The flowers appear on both sides of the vase, accompanied by subtle green and brown foliage. The upper rim, the squared base edges, and the twin handles are accented with extensive gold gilding. The handles are particularly striking, molded into an elegant, scrolling rococo-esque design, also gilded in gold. The gilding shows minor wear consistent with age, particularly on raised areas, indicating a natural patina rather than significant damage. The overall condition appears good with no immediately visible cracks, chips, or repairs, though a detailed inspection would be required to confirm. The craftsmanship suggests a high-quality piece, likely intended for decorative display rather than utilitarian use. The hand-painted nature of the chrysanthemums is a key indicator of its artisanal quality.