Chinese Blue and White Ruyi Baluster Jar

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This contemporary baluster jar from artisans in Jiangxi province continues the centuries-old tradition of Chinese blue-and-white porcelain. Also known as … Read more This contemporary baluster jar from artisans in Jiangxi province continues the centuries-old tradition of Chinese blue-and-white porcelain. Also known as a ginger jar or temple jar, jars of this shape were popular with noblemen who sent them to friends during the Chinese New Year filled with sweetmeats—the jars were then returned filled with new delicacies as a thank you to the well wisher. This large baluster jar is hand-painted with a scene of robed men gathered in a courtyard, seemingly practicing a traditional lantern dance and leisurely strolling about. A band of auspicious ruyi mushrooms decorates the shoulder and the lid is topped by a knob molded as a guardian shizi, or fu lion See less