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Hello, I was just wondering if someone would be so kind to help identify the two marks. I have no idea where to start!

Alan, don't think we're picking on you. This is an oft-repeated plea by several of us.

The key to identifying anything like this accurately is a chance to see all of it. If you read the FAQs and other information about the forum, I don't believe it is described anywhere as a free translation service, rather it is a forum for the discussion and appreciation of Asian arts. Your assistance in achieving those goals would be most appreciated.

Bill H.

The mark on the circular cloisonné brush washer (or bulb bowl) is an apocryphal Ming mark that reads from the top right down and across as "Da Ming Nian Zao" - "Made During the Great Ming Dynasty". This item probably dates to the 3rd or early 4th quarter of the 20th century.

I believe the mark on the metal vase with carp decoration is a "Shou" (壽) longevity character cyphered as a medallion with other auspicious characters, including the Buddhist swastika "Wan" (卍 - eternity), worked into the design.

Perhaps other can comment on the origins and age of the vase, based on its patina and other characteristics, as it is somewhat removed from my collecting arena.

Best regards,

Bill H.

The top mark says Great Ming reign made, an obviously apocryphal inscription having nothing to do with when the item was manufactured.

I have no clue to the second mark.

I have worked out 5 of the 7 characters in the second mark, but like Bill, will wait until the whole objects have been shown.

Thank you for the replies, here is the vase in full.

And a couple of pictures of the Cloisonne Bowl.

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