Blue and White Ruyi Baluster Jar

$680

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Dimensions

H: 19.75" Dia: 9.5"

Materials

Porcelain
Glaze

Purchase Quantity

Collection #

TLB014A

Estimated Shipping

$75

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.

Additional Dimensions:
Without Lid: 15.5"H

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Blue & White Porcelain

Soon after its development in the Yuan dynasty (1271–1368 AD), blue-and-white underglaze porcelain became a favorite of the imperial court. Its broad appeal rapidly extended beyond China’s borders, becoming a lucrative export commodity highly sought after in Europe, the Middle East, and beyond.

Using cobalt imported from Western Asia, ceramic artists ground the mineral into a vibrant blue pigment that was then painted directly on a porcelain base, coated with clear glaze, and fired. This underglaze technique brought with it a shift in focus from the overall shape of a vessel to the skill and artistry traceable in its painted decoration.

Transcending time and taste, blue-and-white porcelain continues to be appreciated around the world for the intricate brushwork and brilliant blue color.