Given the high standard of manufacturing processes these days, it shouldn't prove too difficult to construct a reasonably realistic Ming vase using some sort of high-density rubber. After being coated in glossy plastic and imprinted with characteristic patterns to give it that authentic "Ming" look, the vases can be positioned around the home in suitably precarious positions, ready for guests to knock over in the time-honoured fashion.
Hilarity ensues as the hapless guest flounders desparingly for the falling vase before seeing it hit the ground and bounce to an impressive height, then caught smoothly by the vase owner and set back in its position, ready for the next unsuspecting victim.-- Mr Phase, Aug 13 2006 Plain Red Rubber Vase http://www.panik-de..._-_Rubber_Vase.htmlRubber vases in general exist, but not Ming reproductions. [jutta, Aug 13 2006] ping pong ming mong (sorry) http://arts.guardia.../0,,1703206,00.htmlif only they'd read this idea first (+) [xenzag, Aug 13 2006] As you show friends around the house you could drop in phrases such as "recent investments", "lifetime savings", "meaning to get around to buying insurance". This should add to the overall effect as the vases teeter on the edge of falling.-- wagster, Aug 13 2006 I need everything in my house made of this material. +-- lingamish, Aug 13 2006 Great idea. For best results, use together with indistinguishable ceramic reproductions. (Guest: "Hey! Watch this!" [Drops vase.] Vase: "Smash.")-- jutta, Aug 13 2006 FYI, we had a shatter-proof vase that broke.-- DrCurry, Aug 13 2006 Smashing!-- silverstormer, Aug 13 2006 Minging!-- Ian Tindale, Aug 13 2006 Freakin' brilliant! The inevitable shattering of the vase by a clumsy house-guest was the reason I hadn't put all my money into one of the darn things up until now. I no longer have any excuse.-- primanox, Aug 13 2006 Then invite your confused house-guests into the garden for a quick game of football - with a football made from eggshell-thickness porcelain...-- hippo, Aug 14 2006 hen hao!-- phundug, Aug 15 2006 Pretty neat. I'll take 6.-- shapu, Aug 15 2006 halfbakery