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Subject:Unknown Vase
Posted By: Carol Lee Tue, Dec 17, 2013 IP: 50.149.140.196

Any information on this Chinese item would be appreciated. I have no idea where to get information on it nor what it is.

Thank you







Subject:Re: Unknown Vase
Posted By: Bill H Wed, Dec 18, 2013

Your 'vase' is an apparently miniature Chinese charcoal iron, or perhaps a novelty example of this peculiar 'monk's cap' form made for use as an ashtray or table crumb-collector. Larger sizes of charcoal irons can still be found in use in rural areas of Asia that lack electricity.

The bronze iron shown in the picture was found in Burma about 30 years ago and has a patina suggestive of having been in use since the late 19th or early 20th century. It originally would have had a longer wooden handle attached. I've also seen them with a cover to keep sparks from popping out onto clothes while in use.

Best regards,

Bill H.



Subject:Re: Unknown Vase
Posted By: idcloisonne Sun, Dec 29, 2013

I would add to previous answer, this is one of the many kinds of Chinese exports produced for the Westerm markets in early 20th century.
Base is copper with a gold finish, handle is a molded or impressed motif finished with translucent enamel.
There are multiple variations of this item for sale on the Asian antique market. People have come up with various utilitarian uses for the handled vessel. Purpose is decorative and value is low.


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