9" 1920s Chinese Republic Canton Enamel Hexagonal Vase, Turquoise Meiren & Peacock Scenic Centerpiece, Chinoiserie Mantel Decor

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9" 1920s Chinese Republic Canton Enamel Hexagonal Vase, Turquoise Meiren & Peacock Scenic Centerpiece, Chinoiserie Mantel Decor

Elevate your collection … Read more 9" 1920s Chinese Republic Canton Enamel Hexagonal Vase, Turquoise Meiren & Peacock Scenic Centerpiece, Chinoiserie Mantel Decor

Elevate your collection with this exquisite nine-inch hexagonal baluster vase, a premier example of Early Republic Period (ca. 1912–1949) Canton Enamel. This vessel represents the "Scholar-Beauty" tradition, featuring hand-painted polychrome narrative scenes and botanical studies rendered with a precision rarely seen in later 20th-century exports. Unlike modern reproductions, this vase utilizes the traditional Yangcai technique, where fine vitreous enamels are painted directly onto a hand-formed copper body. The rare hexagonal geometry provides six distinct "galleries" of art, making it a compelling 360-degree centerpiece.

Decorative Program and Symbolism
Three primary panels depict ethereal Meiren (beautiful women) in flowing robes. One standout panel features a figure accompanied by a Peacock, a traditional symbol of high social rank, integrity, and beauty. Alternating panels showcase vibrant Peonies, known as the "King of Flowers," representing wealth, honor, and a wish for a prosperous marriage. The neck and base are finished in a brilliant turquoise ground with delicate floral sprays, while the interior features the signature lime-green "counter-enamel" found on authentic period pieces.

About the Maker
The base features a dual-language maker's mark: "MADE IN CHINA" and the four-character inscription "中国制造" (Zhongguo Zhizao). During the Republic Era, these marks identified high-quality productions destined for the international luxury market. This specific marking style is highly sought after by collectors as it verifies the transition period between imperial tradition and modern production, often representing some of the last great hand-painted enamels before the mid-century industrial shift.

Specifications and Dimensions
Material: Hand-Painted Enamel on Copper with Brass Rims.
Period: Republic Era (ca. 1912–1949).
Height: 9 inches.
Width: 5 inches at widest point.
Form: Hexagonal Baluster.

Condition Report
Very Good Antique Condition. The enamels remain remarkably vibrant and glossy with no significant loss. Consistent with its 80-year history, there is light, attractive surface wear and a natural patina to the hand-applied brass rims. Minor irregularities in the metal binding confirm its hand-formed artisanal origin. Fine, stable crazing is present throughout the white panels, which is a verified hallmark of authentic age in hand-painted enamel on metal.

Designer Notes and Styling
From a design perspective, this vase is a "textural anchor." Its architectural hexagonal shape provides a sophisticated counterpoint to the rounded forms usually found in Chinoiserie displays. The vibrant turquoise and "Famille Rose" palette make this a perfect addition to a Grandmillennial or Maximalist interior. Because each side offers a unique scene, this vase is ideal for a mirrored console table or a central dining table where it can be viewed from all angles. It pairs beautifully with classic Blue and White porcelain, as the turquoise ground bridges the gap between traditional blue and warmer floral tones.

Styling and Compatibility
This vibrant turquoise vase is a quintessential piece for Grandmillennial and Maximalist interiors. Its architectural hexagonal form makes it a standout shelf-styling choice that pairs beautifully with Blue and White porcelain, Famille Rose collections, and traditional Chinoiserie decor. An ideal gift for collectors of Asian antiquities or those seeking a refined mantel anchor with an antique soul. Part of a curated collection of fine Asian art and 19th-century treasures from Cherished Memories.

This signed Canton Enamel vase is more than a decorative object; it is a storied artifact that captures the elegance of a bygone era. Whether you are a seasoned collector of Asian Antiquities or a designer seeking a piece with "old soul" for a modern home, this hexagonal masterpiece is a definitive choice. See less