How to identify old vases

Start with one clear answer

To identify an old vase, inspect the base first, then the material, glaze, decoration, foot ring, form, rim, and condition. The same word vase covers porcelain, pottery, studio ceramics, Satsuma, Roseville, Chinese export, European porcelain, and later decorative ware.

Recent auction examples show old vases ranging from modest studio pottery to higher-performing antique French porcelain. The identification category determines the comparable market.

Quick identification checklist

• Photograph the full vase, base, foot ring, rim, interior, handles, decoration, glaze, mark, and any drilled holes.
• Measure height and widest diameter, and show chips, hairlines, staining, repairs, cracks, and lamp fittings.
• Separate porcelain, pottery, stoneware, earthenware, Satsuma, Roseville, Chinese porcelain, European porcelain, glass, and lamp vases.

Key value and identity drivers

• Material and origin: porcelain, art pottery, studio pottery, and export porcelain sell into different markets.
• Form and decoration: pairs, large scale, hand painting, relief, gilt mounts, and strong glaze can help.
• Condition and alteration: drilled bases, lamp conversion, rim chips, repairs, and staining can change value.

Condition and authenticity cautions

Watch for drilled bases, lamp conversions, fake marks, later decoration, overpaint, replaced mounts, and repaired rims. These details can materially change both identity and value.

When to use the free screener

Use the free screener when you need a first-pass identity, pattern, mark, or category read before deciding whether the object deserves a paid appraisal. It is especially useful when you have clear photos but do not yet know what the piece is.

When to get a professional appraisal

Use a professional appraisal when the piece may be valuable, when you need a signed report for insurance, estate, donation, sale, or dispute use, or when authenticity, restoration, or provenance changes the answer.

Photo checklist

• Full object or full set, front, back, base, side profile, interior, and scale reference.
• Close-ups of marks, pattern names, artist signatures, impressed numbers, labels, lids, handles, rims, feet, and damage.
• Any boxes, receipts, certificates, family notes, past appraisal paperwork, or auction/dealer labels.

Related guides

Pottery and porcelain guides, Free ceramic appraisal online, How to identify pottery marks, Pottery marks identification guide, Value of old vases, Hand-painted porcelain vase clues.

FAQ

How do I tell what kind of old vase I have?

Start with material, base, mark, glaze, decoration, shape, and condition, then compare to the correct category.

Does a drilled vase still have value?

Sometimes, but drilling or lamp conversion often reduces value and must be disclosed.

What vase photos should I upload?

Send full object, base, mark, rim, interior, side profile, decoration, damage, and measurements.