Chinese Cloisonné Floral Motif Brush Pot or Small Vase

This item is a cylindrical Chinese cloisonné brush pot, likely dating from the mid-20th century. It features a brass or copper base body decorated with wirework cells (cloisons) filled with colorful glass enamels. The exterior displays a vibrant floral pattern consisting of a large pink and blue lotus or peony blossom with green and yellow foliage against a dark blue ground. The interior and base are coated in a solid turquoise-blue enamel. Physically, the piece measures approximately 3 to 4 inches in height. The top rim and bottom edge reveal the brass substrate, showing a natural aged patina. Condition-wise, the item exhibits notable signs of wear and damage, including a significant chip in the enamel near the upper rim on the interior, exposing the underlying metal and rust-colored oxidation. There are also visible scuffs on the exterior surface and general pitting common in older cloisonné manufacturing. The craftsmanship reflects a mass-produced version of traditional Chinese metalwork techniques, prioritizing decorative appeal over high-end fine art precision.

I have examined the images of this cylindrical Chinese cloisonné brush pot or small vase. Based on the visual evidence, this piece appears to be a mid-20th century export item, likely produced between the 1960s and 1980s. The construction features a copper or brass body with wire cloisons filled with enamel, displaying a traditional floral motif (likely peony or lotus) against a dark blue ground, a standard palette for this era. The turquoise enamel interior and base are consistent with mass-produced export ware rather than imperial or high-end workshop pieces. The condition significantly impacts the value. I noted substantial damage, particularly the large chip to the enamel on the interior rim which has exposed the underlying metal to oxidation. The exterior enamel shows pitting and surface wear typical of lower-quality manufacture and age, but the structural integrity remains intact. The exposed brass rims show a natural patina, which is expected. In the current market, supply for mid-century cloisonné of this size (3-4 inches) is abundant. These pieces are generally traded as decorative objects rather than serious collector's items. Comparables in pristine condition might fetch $40-60, but the significant damage reduces this piece's achievable price. It holds value primarily as a vintage curio or study piece. Authentic imperial Ming or Qing dynasty cloisonné would require provenance and a heavier bronze weight, neither of which is indicated here. No further scientific testing is necessary as the attribution is visually clear, though handling the piece to confirm weight and seam construction would verify the manufacturing period.