How do you identify Chinese pottery marks?

Of all Chinese porcelain marks, reign marks are generally the easiest markings to read as they follow a set format. On each six-character reign mark, the first two characters indicate the dynasty, the second two characters give the name of the Emperor, and the last two characters translate to “made for”.

How do I know if my Chinese bowl is valuable?

Valuable Chinese vases can be distinguished by the quality and finesse of their decoration. The work done on them is much more precise than on an ordinary object. The subject matter is also important (the taste for certain themes can be influenced by cultural events highlighting a specific period).

Is all Chinese pottery marked?

Yes – all Chinese Export Porcelain All genuine marks are only to be found on porcelain made for the reigning Chinese Emperor. Most “fake” marks are found on Chinese porcelain intended for the Chinese home market and are most often added to match the general design of the piece and of course to add some value.

What are porcelain china markings?

According to the ancient Chinese tradition of writing and reading, the marks on the bottom of a porcelain vessel are usually read from top to bottom, and from right to left. Marks written horizontally are read from right to left.

How do I find my old Chinese markings?

Tips for Determining Type

1. Hold the china up to the light. According to Noritake, bone china will be significantly more translucent than other types of porcelain.
2. Examine the color. Noritake also notes that the color of bone china tends to be more ivory than white.
3. Listen to the piece.

How do you read Chinese porcelain marks?

How do you read a reign mark? Reign marks are most commonly written in vertical columns and are read from top to bottom, and from right to left. It is thought that this system of reading and writing grew from ancient Chinese traditions of writing on vertical strips of bamboo or bone.

What is a Ming mark?

Ming Dynasty Markings Known as ‘reign marks’, the practice of adding inscriptions became popular during the Ming dynasty. Vases were marked and these Ming dynasty vase markings – usually on the base of the piece – denoted that it was commissioned for the Emperor or for the Imperial household.

How do you identify Chinese markings?

The traditional six-figure configuration of hallmarks is read top to bottom, right to left. In general, the first two characters are reign marks, the second two are emperor marks and the last two direct placement. In the case of four-character marks, the reign marks are usually the ones omitted.

How can I tell if my Chinese porcelain is antique?

To evaluate the age of Chinese porcelain, and thus the era it was manufactured within, the following must be assessed – in this order:

1. Shape of the item.
2. Colour palette.
3. Decorative style.
4. Base and foot of the item.
5. Glazed finish.
6. Clay.
7. Signs of ageing.
8. Any marks on the item.