Decorative Ceramic Vase Base with Safety Warning
Decorative Arts / Ceramics

Decorative Ceramic Vase Base with Safety Warning

This is the underside base of a cylindrical ceramic vase, characterized by a circular, unglazed foot rim. The material appears to be a low-to-mid-fire white ceramic or earthenware, given the slightly porous and off-white appearance of the exposed clay. A prominent orange or iron-red rectangular stamp is centered on the base, featuring the text 'NOT FOR FOOD USE / MAY POISON FOOD' in all-caps, sans-serif lettering. This marking is a critical regulatory indicator often found on decorative ceramics imported into Western markets—particularly from East Asia (likely Japan or China)—during the late 20th century (circa 1970s-1990s). The warning indicates that the glazes used on the exterior may contain high levels of lead or cadmium, making it unsafe for culinary applications. The condition shows visible shelf wear, with dark scuffing and greyish accumulation along the contact point of the foot ring. There are fine specks of kiln debris and slight surface pitting within the recessed center of the base. The overall craftsmanship suggests a mass-produced decorative object rather than a high-end artisanal piece, evidenced by the utilitarian nature of the safety stamp and the standard industrial finishing of the base.

Estimated Value

$15.00 - $35.00

Basic Information

Category

Decorative Arts / Ceramics

Appraised On

January 20, 2026

Estimated Value

$15.00 - $35.00

Additional Details Provided By Owner

User Provided Information

Ceramic vase

Item Description

This is the underside base of a cylindrical ceramic vase, characterized by a circular, unglazed foot rim. The material appears to be a low-to-mid-fire white ceramic or earthenware, given the slightly porous and off-white appearance of the exposed clay. A prominent orange or iron-red rectangular stamp is centered on the base, featuring the text 'NOT FOR FOOD USE / MAY POISON FOOD' in all-caps, sans-serif lettering. This marking is a critical regulatory indicator often found on decorative ceramics imported into Western markets—particularly from East Asia (likely Japan or China)—during the late 20th century (circa 1970s-1990s). The warning indicates that the glazes used on the exterior may contain high levels of lead or cadmium, making it unsafe for culinary applications. The condition shows visible shelf wear, with dark scuffing and greyish accumulation along the contact point of the foot ring. There are fine specks of kiln debris and slight surface pitting within the recessed center of the base. The overall craftsmanship suggests a mass-produced decorative object rather than a high-end artisanal piece, evidenced by the utilitarian nature of the safety stamp and the standard industrial finishing of the base.

Get Your Items Appraised

Instant estimates of your treasures with AI-powered instant appraisals

Browse More Appraisals