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I am wondering about the value of these bowls. I slipped on the stairs and two have broken. I had four. I am pretty devastated about it. Did I lose items of great value? I thought they were so beautiful and enjoyed them for many years. Thank you.

This is a well-painted Republic (1912-49) chicken bowl with an iron-red base-mark of "Jiangxi (Province) Harmony, Glory and Prosperity" (Jiang xi yi rong chang - 江西怡榮昌). I can find no record of such a company. "Chang" is also a surname but not used as such in the mark.

On the other hand, the inscription on the side in black is more informative, as after offering a blessing of "Riches, honors and an enjoyable long life" (Fu Gui Shou Kao - 富貴壽考), I believe it says "Jiangxi Product of Perpetual Good Omens (workshop or studio)" (Jiang xi yong sheng xiang chu pin - 江西永生祥出品). Here's a link to a teapot, also with an inscription from the latter firm.

URL Title :Yongshengxiang

P.S.

I tried to find bowls like yours with associated price tags online, but the more popular spots for shopping wares like yours, also are crowded with often overpriced reproductions to the virtual exclusion of anything comparable. The flip side is that trustworthy sites are loaded mostly with 18th and 19th century pieces with high-end prices beyond the scope of yours bowls.

The nearest thing to your bowls I've bought in recent times is shown below in a composite screen-shot. I've kept it as an archival specimen since purchasing it four years ago and deciding that, while interesting, it may not be Chinese as sold but a piece of French or other European chinoiserie. While I didn't pay a great deal, I would think that your marked and apparently authentic Republic-era cups should be worth at least $200-$300 apiece in today's Chinese-driven market, if the condition is as good as it seems in the somewhat shadowy pictures. Other views always welcome.

Best regards,

Bill H.

Thank you so much for all of your help! I really appreciate your time.

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