Small Chinese porcelain tea caddy or lidded jar
Estimated Value
$30-$120
A small white porcelain lidded vessel, likely a tea caddy, condiment jar, or storage jar. The form is rounded and compact with a fitted lid and a slightly stepped shoulder. It bears hand-painted black calligraphic characters on the body, suggesting either a contents label, shop mark, or personal inscription. The glaze appears glossy but aged, with minor discoloration and wear consistent with utilitarian use. The overall style is simple and functional rather than highly decorative.
Era
Late 19th to early 20th century (Qing Dynasty to Republic period, approximate)
Origin
China
Material
Porcelain with hand-painted black enamel/ink decoration
Condition
Fair to Good; visible surface wear, staining, and possible minor rim/lid damage or age-related crazing. The handwritten inscription is worn and uneven, and the piece shows general use and age.
Physical Details
Dimensions
Approximately 3.5 to 4.5 inches tall
Weight
Light
Authentication
Authenticity Score
Medium; the porcelain and hand-painted inscription appear consistent with an older Chinese utilitarian piece, but the exact age, maker, and authenticity cannot be confirmed from a single image.
Provenance
Likely Chinese domestic or export ware; the inscription suggests it may have been used for tea or another stored commodity. Exact provenance cannot be determined from the image alone.
Historical Significance
Small porcelain storage vessels like this were common in Chinese households and tea culture. While not typically rare, they reflect everyday material culture and the practical aesthetics of late imperial or early Republican Chinese ceramics.
Restoration Notes
- •Possible minor chip or wear at the rim/lid area
- •No clear evidence of professional restoration visible in the image
- •Surface grime, staining, and age wear present
This identification and value range are AI-generated research aids, not authentication, certification, or a formal appraisal. Learn about the limitations and when to consult a qualified professional appraiser.
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