Vase with decorative inlays
We believe this is a vase made of bronze, but not sure. It's heavy with a lot of texture in the metal. The signature on the bottom of the vase is likely someone's name. The colorful pieces decorating the vase could either be ceramic or glass built into the metal. It's a nice decor item.
It was purchased from a Chinese antique store in the 1990s in New Jersey, USA.
Other
Maybe
Thank you for contacting Mearto. This is a bronze Chinese vessel. The color and patina on the inside are consistent with bronze. The shape is a traditional “zun” shape. During the Bronze Age in China, there were a number of defined shapes for ceremonial vessels. They were used for offerings to deities. Members of the ruling class owned them as signs of power and status. See the link below.
This is a reproduction made in the 20th century. The inlays appear to be made of ceramic glaze. Chinese ceramics have seals at the bottom but bronzes do not. The seal indicates the date or maker, written in Chinese seal script, an archaic style which is different from modern Chinese.
Based on sale of similar items, the Fair Market Value of this piece is between $75 and $125.
Authentic zun
https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/42167
