Thanks for your helpful post, Davewil. As I mentioned in a previous post I really don't think AP will come to the party on compensation as mailing box was undamaged but nice big crack from rim down to about 6 inches on 1 vase. This seems to me that more cushioning/packing was needed here. I have just sent a msg to seller telling them there's no claim I can put in for damage etc and have asked for a partial refund as an act of goodwill in this case. As mentioned in my first post I have bought  many ceramic items from Ebay sellers here and o'seas and all have arrived in good shape because they were packaged/cushioned so well. Will come back when I have seller's latest reply. Thanks again