This exquisite antique Chinese vase is believed to be from the Qianlong period (1736-1795) of the Qing Dynasty, a time renowned for its exceptional porcelain craftsmanship. The vase features a striking black ground with detailed enamel floral patterns and a beautifully intricate leafy design.
Features:
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Period: Qianlong period (1736-1795) of the Qing Dynasty
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Material: Porcelain with enamel decoration
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Dimensions: Height: XX inches, Diameter: XX inches
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Condition: The vase has significant damage where the top layer has broken off, revealing an intricate and beautifully preserved underlayer of craftsmanship.
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Markings: The bottom of the vase bears the mark "大清乾隆年制" (Dà Qīng Qián Lóng Nián Zhì), which translates to "Made during the Qianlong reign of the Great Qing Dynasty."
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Unique Feature: The breakage reveals intricate underlayers of enamel work, adding historical interest and authenticity to the piece.
Detailed Description:
This vase is a testament to the high level of artistry achieved during the Qianlong period. The main body is decorated with a black ground, providing a stark and elegant backdrop for the intricate enamel floral patterns that adorn the surface. The floral motifs are meticulously crafted, demonstrating the skilled artisanship of the time.
The top rim of the vase features a blue and white floral border, typical of the period's aesthetic. Despite the damage, the breakage has revealed an extraordinary level of detail in the underlayers of the vase, showcasing the multi-layered technique used in its creation.
Techniques and Craftsmanship:
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Porcelain Making: The base material of the vase is high-quality porcelain, known for its strength, translucence, and fine grain. Porcelain from the Qianlong period is highly regarded for its purity and craftsmanship.
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Enamel Decoration: The enamel work on the vase involves multiple layers of colored enamels applied to the porcelain surface. Each layer is fired separately at high temperatures to fuse the enamel with the porcelain, resulting in a durable and vibrant decoration.
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Blue and White Decoration: The top rim features a blue and white floral border, created using cobalt blue underglaze. This technique involves painting designs with cobalt oxide on the porcelain before it is glazed and fired at high temperatures.
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Revealed Underlayers: The breakage has exposed the underlying layers of enamel work, providing a rare glimpse into the construction and decorative processes. These underlayers show the careful application of colors and patterns that were meticulously built up to create the final design.
Historical Context:
The Qianlong period was a time of great prosperity and cultural achievement in China. Porcelain produced during this time was highly sought after both domestically and internationally. This vase, with its intricate designs and superior craftsmanship, is a fine example of the period's artistic excellence.
This listing aims to provide a thorough and technical description of the vase, emphasizing its historical context, craftsmanship, and the unique features revealed by the damage, while also noting that the vase has not been professionally authenticated but is likely an antique based on wear and craftsmanship.
#Antique #ChineseVase #QianlongPeriod #QingDynasty #Porcelain #EnamelWork #HistoricalArtifact #Collector's Item
