Vintage 23 In. Tall Black Porcelain Palace Vase Lady Courtesan in Enamel Relief

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Description

This vintage Palace Vase with Chinese seal script stands an impressive 23 inches tall and 10 inches wide. The body … Read more This vintage Palace Vase with Chinese seal script stands an impressive 23 inches tall and 10 inches wide. The body rises in a smooth, uninterrupted curve from the foot to the shoulder, tapering into a short neck that ends in a thin, delicate lip—a subtle detail that enhances the vase’s elegant, vertical profile.

The surface features a glossy black background that dramatically highlights the raised enamel decoration. At the center is a beautifully rendered courtesan, her expression serene and contemplative. She is depicted with fine, delicate facial features and a small vermilion mark at the forehead. Her hair is styled in an elaborate, sculptural coiffure adorned with floral and beaded ornaments. Her flowing red robe, trimmed with crisp white accents, is richly dimensional, with raised enamel work that brings depth and movement to the figure.

Surrounding her are branching floral motifs, likely plum blossoms, executed in white and tan tones. Additional decorative elements—pendant bead-like ornaments and stylized floral clusters—enhance the composition.

The reverse side features poetry in Chinese Seal Script, an ancient and highly stylized form of calligraphy. The inscription translates to:

“Fragrance is sensed when the flowers bloom; The sun breaks through intervals of clouds. Rare wonders emerge from the magnificent splendor, While ritual vessels rest near the window of the dwelling, Preserving life’s spirit beyond the mountain ridges.”

Altogether, this vase combines striking visual artistry, traditional symbolism, and literary elegance. See less