Japanese Cobalt Blue Porcelain Trinket Box with Etched Brass Calla Lily Medallion
Chokin Style (Likely Unbranded Japanese Export) · Art & Decor > Decorative Boxes
Era / Decade
1970s-1980s (Height of the Chokin art export era)
Material
Glazed cobalt porcelain/ceramic with a 24K gold-plated or brass etched metal inlay medallion. Features gold gilt trim along the edges.
Condition
Good. The porcelain appears intact without visible cracks or large chips. However, there is significant adhesive residue or peeling film over the central medallion, and a large price sticker is obscuring the art. The gold gilt trim shows minor thinning.
Demand Level
Moderate. While cobalt porcelain is classic, small trinket boxes are plentiful in the resale market and usually serve as 'add-on' items or gifts.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$12.00 - $22.00 (High-end only if a designer mark is on the bottom)
Estimated Retail Value
$25.00 - $35.00 (Adjusted for modern equivalent giftware)
Comparable Sales
Similar Japanese Chokin cobalt boxes frequently sell for $10–$18 on eBay and up to $25 on Etsy if the gold trim is in pristine condition.
Description
Exquisite vintage Japanese cobalt blue porcelain trinket box. This square vanity jar features a deep blue glaze accented by 24K gold gilt striping. The lid highlights a traditional Chokin-style metal medallion depicting a Calla Lily floral scene. Perfect for jewelry, stamps, or as a decorative accent on a dresser. Measures approximately 4 inches square.
Key Features
Rich cobalt blue color which is highly collectible in porcelain; Chokin metal engraving style; popular floral motif (Calla Lily); elegant gold gilt accents.
Authenticity Indicators
The presence of Japanese characters (signatures) on the metal medallion is typical for Chokin art. Confidence is High that this is a genuine 20th-century Japanese souvenir/export item.
Flaws to Note
A heavy paper price sticker is placed directly on the delicate metal surface, which may cause scratching or patina issues when removed. There appears to be a protective plastic film on the metal that is lifting and dirty. Minor wear to the gold trim on the base.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Etsy (best for vintage decor), eBay (best for quick global reach), or Facebook Marketplace (local sales to avoid shipping fragile ceramic).
Selling Tips
Carefully remove the sticker using a hair dryer to loosen the adhesive—avoid harsh chemicals on the metal medallion. Use keywords like 'Chokin Art', 'Empire Japan', 'Cobalt Blue', and '24K Gold Trim' in the title. Take photos of the bottom to show any maker's marks.