Tips to invest in vintage: Ceramics and Bone China

On April 3rd 2018, Sotheby’s Hong Kong auction of porcelain bowl and Buddhist manuscript, that included the rare porcelain bowl – six inches high, belonging to 1661-1772 of the Kangxi Emperor of China, could fetch over €24 million. The bowl got the price due to the unique design, one of its finest types. One such work of art is kept in the National Palace Museum, Taipei, known for rarity of colors and perfection in design. It was believed to be a product made by the potters in Jingdezhen at the Imperial kilns and painted in the Forbidden City. Highest bidding was received for the two sets of Buddhist Sutra Manuscripts that belonged to Ming Dynasty. The Sutras are canonical scriptures written in gold ink on indigo paper.

How to start investment in ceramics?

People who want to invest in china can get hundreds of copies of Chinese potters in markets. Auction houses offer some rare original products and they handle these pieces with care. The price depends on the weight and quality of painting.  Buyers need to familiarize with the types of palettes or history where such ceramics were used. Famille verte palette came in 17th century and the painting with rose color came in 1720s. The 18th century ceramics are technically superior with strong glazes of copper red.

Buyers should try to gain information about the various types of glazes and wares. These glazes come from specific locations such as the celadon glazed ceramics belongs to Longquan   to the South West of Zhejiang. Those belonging to the era of Song dynasty are Jun wares with lavender glazes and purple color. Ming wares have creamy tones, and 19th century items have ivory and white shades.

Buyers should try to see the foundation, cuts, glazes and changes to categorize the dynasties. Dating and authentication can help to find real values. Instead of looking at catalogues or photographs, check the bona fide product to prevent fake. The condition of the piece should be fine. It should not be damaged / broken, although, some with small undetectable flaws or great historical values can gain, even if, a part is broken.

Change in the decorative blue element has changed over the centuries where the ones with blue design with heaps and pile effects, and the under glaze of cobalt concentrated in some areas of the design belong to 15th century. One such ceramic piece of 18th century made in Ming style blue with dragon design was sold for $732,500 at New York Christie auction. The pieces with blue white work of art mostly belong to 17th – 18th century.

Even the shapes of ceramics changed in different eras. In the past, designs were made into a vase or bowl with a long neck, and later ones had a shorter neck. Before buying any such item, one should try to gain information about the product, ask questions, and talk about the ceramics to experts. Investment in such things should be driven by passion, not just as a business opportunity.  

To find out more about investment in Vintage Bone China Sets, check 99 Alternatives at (http://www.99alternatives.com).