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Republic period style c1940s with apocryphal Qianlong four character seal mark
Decorative Chinese scholar scene vase for Asian porcelain and calligraphy collectors
Vintage Chinese Republic Porcelain Figural Landscape Vase Qianlong Mark
🖋️ Description
A finely decorated Chinese porcelain globular vase, tentatively dating to the mid-1940s, with a hand-painted polychrome figural landscape, black calligraphy, iron-red seals and an apocryphal Qianlong reign mark.
The compact vessel has a squat rounded body, short neck and raised circular foot. One side is painted with an atmospheric traditional Chinese landscape incorporating female figures, architectural elements, rocks, water and vegetation, while the reverse carries a calligraphic inscription accompanied by red seals.
The inscription reads:
細數落花因坐久 緩尋芳草得歸遲
These lines derive from Beishan by the celebrated Song dynasty scholar and poet Wang Anshi (1021–1086) and evoke lingering among fallen blossoms and returning slowly after seeking fragrant grasses.
The base carries a raised blue-enamel four-character seal mark:
乾隆年製 — Qianlong Nian Zhi
meaning “Made in the Qianlong Period”. The mark is apocryphal and does not indicate manufacture during the historical Qianlong reign. Its form corresponds closely with documented 20th-century examples, supporting a tentative dating around the middle of the 20th century.
The combination of figural landscape painting, literary calligraphy, seal marks and an archaistic reign mark reflects the continuing influence of traditional scholar-art aesthetics on Chinese decorative porcelain of the Republic and early post-Republic era.
✨ Poetic Impression
Fallen blossoms drift beside the stream,
Painted figures wander through a dream,
Ancient verses trace a scholar’s way,
Soft enamels hold another day.
🎁 For Whom
An appealing piece for collectors of Chinese porcelain, Republic-period ceramics, scholar’s objects, Chinese calligraphy, figural landscapes or decorative Asian art.
🔮 How to Use
Ideal for display in a cabinet, study, mantel arrangement or curated Asian ceramics collection. Its literary inscription and landscape decoration also make it particularly attractive as a standalone decorative object.
Dimensions
Height: approx. 12.5 cm
Rim diameter: approx. 5 cm
Foot diameter: approx. 6 cm
Maximum body diameter: approx. 12 cm
Condition
Good vintage condition overall. There is a localised loss of enamel or painted decoration to the upper rim; the porcelain body in this area does not appear to have lost material and this is therefore described as enamel loss rather than a chip. No other significant damage has been reported. Minor age-related surface wear may be present, consistent with age and use. Please refer to the photos for condition and details.
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📦 Shipping & Packaging
Free UK delivery. Worldwide tracked shipping available. Securely packed using eco-friendly protective materials. Combined shipping offered for multiple purchases.
✉️ We’re always happy to help — if you have any questions about this item, delivery options, or our service, please don’t hesitate to contact us. The TARRARI team will gladly assist you.
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