Mid-Century Asian Boy Standing by Tree Trunk Bud Vase
Unbranded (Likely Napco or Lefton style) · Art & Decor > Vases & Planters
Era / Decade
1950s - 1960s (Mid-Century Modern kitsch)
Material
Hand-painted ceramic/porcelain with high-gloss glaze.
Condition
Fair to Good. Visible glaze flake/chip on the top front of the tree trunk; minor paint loss on the boy's coat and sleeve; crazing typical for age.
Demand Level
Niche (specific to collectors of Mid-Century kitsch or vintage occupied Japan style figures).
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
Low: $8, Mid: $15, High: $22
Estimated Retail Value
$5.00 - $10.00 (original 1950s pricing adjusted for inflation)
Comparable Sales
Similar small Japanese novelty vases and planters from the 1950s typically sell for $12–$20 on eBay. Pieces with chips usually sell at the lower end ($8–$10).
Description
Charming vintage mid-century ceramic bud vase featuring a young boy in traditional Asian attire resting against a realistic textured tree trunk. Hand-painted with a vibrant yellow coat, green pants, and a glossy brown tree. Perfect for kitsch collectors or chinoiserie decor.
Key Features
Mid-century kitsch appeal; unique 'tree trunk' texture; high-gloss finish; classic 1950s novelty item.
Authenticity Indicators
Likely Japan-sourced export; check bottom for 'Made in Japan' ink stamp or remnants of a foil label. High confidence this is a period-authentic post-WWII novelty piece.
Flaws to Note
A significant chip/glaze flake is visible on the upper portion of the tree trunk; there are small specks of paint loss on the yellow garment; visible surface crazing (fine cracks in the glaze).
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Etsy (best for vintage decor), eBay (best for collectors), or local antique mall booth.
Selling Tips
Highlight the 'Mid-Century Kitsch' keywords in the title. Take close-up photos of the chip to avoid returns. This item is best bundled with other similar small figurines to make shipping costs more attractive to buyers.