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I'm having trouble with the mark on a pair of matching vases I acquired. The design is famille noir, they have quite a bit of age and the mark is shown. Any help I can get would be greatly appreciated. I'm not even sure if they are Chinese or Japanese...thanks!

This overglaze red mark appears to be the orchid logo of the Japanese Koransha (scented orchid) company. Koransha was formed to produce export wares in 1876 by Ezaiemon Fukagawa of the well-known Arita porcelain-making family and several partners. The red orchid mark was gradualy supplanted by others in underglaze blue during the early 20th century.

Best regards,

Bill H.

Mark look like later-added attempt reproduce late 19th-century mark of Koransha ('fragrant orchid') company owned by Fukagawa family. Do internet search these terms.

Many reproductions made over last 30 years or so because genuine items bring good prices.

Your vase probably made Japan. Should not be called 'famille noire' which is term invented by Western collectors in late 19th century for ~Chinese~ ceramics they thought made early 18th century (nearly all were not made then, but most of what then on market were new-made and made into early 20th century at least).

What mean by "have quite a bit of age"? Foot rim can be beaten by chain and have dirt added, or could just be fired on bed of sand instead of in saggar (which more expensive take more room and take longer firing and cooling in kiln).

Could have been made near any time in 20th century, perhaps someone else know if this is particular type.

Good luck,
Cal

This appears to be a fake Koransha Red Orchid mark. The vase and and decoration are far from the fine quality of Koransha porcelain.Possibly made in China.

Below is a copy of the Red Orchid mark used by Koransha about 1990.

Looks like the Fukagawa mark,Japan,1879-1883,see what the more learned have to say,
Keith.

Hi Penny,

This looks like the orchid mark of Koransha. So my guess would be: Japanese.

Regards,

Arjan

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