Skip to main content
Questions Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions

How do I identify a Ming vase?

1 Answer
How do I identify a Ming vase?
There are a few tell-tale signs you can look for to determine whether your Ming vase is real or fake. Authentic Ming vases will have a mark on the bottom to note what Emperor they were made for. There are several different markings so it helps to familiarize yourself with them. Also, Ming vases have very little iron in the clay. Iron turns reddish when the clay is fired if there is no glaze over it. Look inside the vase to see what color the unglazed clay is. Shop a collection of authentic Ming vases from some of the world’s top stores on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Shop for Chinese Bronze Vases on 1stDibs
Archaic Chinese Bronze Vase
Located in Marseille, FR
Archaic Chinese bronze vase decorated with elephant heads, work probably from the middle of the
Category

Antique 19th Century Vases

Materials

Bronze

Chinese Bronze Vase with 10 Figures
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Chinese bronze vase with 10 figures - Not certain of age, but works well in any setting and water
Category

20th Century Chinese Vases

Materials

Bronze

Chinese Bronze Vase with 10 Figures
$1,200 Sale Price
20% Off
Pair of Chinese Bronze Vases
Located in New York, NY
Pair of circa 1930's bronze Chinese vases depicting dragons. Measurements: Height: 10" Diameter
Category

Vintage 1930s Chinese Vases

Materials

Bronze

Chinese Bronze Vase with Bird Design
Located in Queens, NY
Asian Chinese (19th Cent) bronze vase with birds in relief.
Category

Antique 19th Century Chinese Chinese Export Vases

Materials

Bronze

Large Chinese Archaistic Black Patina Bronze Altar Vase
Located in Mt Kisco, NY
Chinese bronze vase with decoration in the Archaistic style and dragon mythical beast loop handles.
Category

Antique 18th Century Chinese Archaistic Vases

Materials

Bronze

Antique Archaic style Chinese Bronze Vase Mounted as Table Lamp
Located in New York, NY
Finely cast antique Chinese archaistic bronze vase with verdigris patina and dragon ring handles
Category

Early 20th Century Chinese Archaistic Table Lamps

Materials

Brass, Bronze

Shop All