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I posted this item approximately ten days ago, but no one responded. I am seeking opinions regarding the identification of this item. I was informed that it was created several hundred years ago, which would place it during the Qing Dynasty. It is rather large--about 11" x 10" x 4.5". Please let me know if you have any comments that may help me identify this item. Thanks

You could probably take the lack of response at face value.

As for the claims that it is from the Qing dynasty, that seems pretty far fetched to say the least.

You may try to take some very close-up photos of the carvings of the blossoms on top, in order to be able to discern the layers to help ascertain whether it is even cinnabar, and not just molded plastic. It would also be helpful to show the bottom, and the inside, to relate what you know of the background history, and where you got it.

So far, from the poor photos, it is pretty hard to say what it is, perhaps better photos might change that.

It is very doubtful about the Qing dating.

Cheers
Gman

Or if you are up to it. TO determine if it is made of modern plastic resin, burn a needle until orange hot and poke the item is a obscure place that is out of sight. If the needle melts the area in contact, then it's made of plastic and thus has very little value.

It's not plastic. Can you ID and date
it?

Sorry I can't. I don't think it's more than a 100 years old. My knowledge is with ceramics. The technique I described above is the only one I know to determine cheap imitation plastic carved cinnabar that is common tourist wares.

Assuming it's real carved lacquer, circa 1850.

Cheers

Doug and Moyra

Thanks. And would you know the approximate
value of such a piece?

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