Martaban Jar, China, 19th Century

Details

Description

A 19th century Chinese Martaban storage jar, once a robust vessel of the maritime trade routes connecting East Asia to … Read more A 19th century Chinese Martaban storage jar, once a robust vessel of the maritime trade routes connecting East Asia to the wider world. Its ovoid form and characterful lug handles reflect a long tradition of functional stoneware, originally used to transport and store essential provisions like tea, oils, and spices.
Circa 1850, this original period piece was crafted during the late Qing Dynasty, a time when these durable jars were essential to the rhythm of global commerce.
Stoneware finished with a deep brown glaze that often features a naturally worn patina or a poured effect along the base. Rooted in the southern Chinese pottery tradition, this jar carries the sturdy elegance and practical spirit that defined export ceramics throughout the 19th century. See less