Pair of antique Chinese vases, polychrome enamel, relief dragons, vintage

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This pair of antique Chinese vases features a baluster silhouette with prominent shoulders and a flared neck. The main decoration, meticulously crafted in polychrome enamels, illustrates lively scenes of figures in traditional costumes, likely from a Chinese historical or mythological narrative. The dominant colors are green, pink, yellow, and black, accented by touches of white and red, typical of Canton or Famille Rose inspired decorative productions.

The unique feature of these vases lies in the presence of dragons in relief, applied to the shoulder and neck, providing a highly sought-after three-dimensional effect. These dragons, molded and affixed before firing, accentuate the ornamental character of each piece. The enamel treatment shows slight surface crazing, indicative of age and the manufacturing process.

The flared neck of each vase is adorned with a frieze of figures and stylized floral motifs, while the body depicts a procession of warriors and dignitaries, all rendered with great attention to detail. The color palette remains vibrant despite visible wear, and the overall effect conveys a sense of liveliness and movement, enhanced by the dynamic arrangement of the figures.

The visible base of each vase presents a nuanced ivory hue, with brown areas and localized gold highlights, typical of antique enameled pieces. The surface shows a patina and signs of use, consistent with an ancient object exposed or handled over time.

The dark-colored relief dragons are finely modeled and harmoniously integrated into the overall composition. The details of the scales, claws, and heads are well preserved and give the ensemble a unique sculptural appearance.

Condition

Used items sold as is. Signs of wear, patina, chips or localized losses on the enamels and reliefs, visible in the photo. The colors remain vibrant and the general structure of the vases is intact on the visible sides.

Did you know? Polychrome enameled vases with relief, often referred to as "dragon vases," were highly prized in China in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The technique of applying high-relief subjects to ceramic required particular expertise and was primarily carried out in workshops in southern China, especially in the Canton region.

AFW Reassurance

Fast shipping and careful packaging. Professional seller specializing in antique and decorative objects.

Keywords: antique Chinese vase, polychrome enamels, dragon relief vase, Famille Rose vase, Asian decor vase, vintage China vase, antique Chinese vase, warrior decor vase, enameled baluster vase, mythological decor vase, Asian decorative vase, dragon vase