Chinese Export Style Ginger Jar on Rosewood Pedestal Table
Other/Decorative Accessory (Jar) on Table (Pedestal) · Qing Dynasty Wucai Style (late 20th Century reproduction) · Unknown modern Chinese manufacturer; likely produced for the export decorative market.
Type
Other/Decorative Accessory (Jar) on Table (Pedestal)
Style Period
Qing Dynasty Wucai Style (late 20th Century reproduction)
Material
Jar: Glazed porcelain with polychrome enamels. Pedestal: Rosewood or stained hardwood frame with an inset pink/brown marble top.
Age Estimate
Circa 1980-2010 (Modern reproduction of an antique style).
Dimensions
Jar: 12-14 inches tall. Pedestal: 18-24 inches tall. Total height: 30-38 inches.
Origin
China; contemporary export ware sold through home decor or import boutiques.
Designer/Maker
Unknown modern Chinese manufacturer; likely produced for the export decorative market.
Value Estimate
Retail: $150 - $300 for the set. Value is driven by decorative appeal rather than antique rarity.
Description
A vibrant and classically inspired ginger jar featuring the Wucai five-color palette. The jar is decorated with a sinuous dragon amidst flaming pearls and floral scrolls, topped with a matching domed lid. It rests upon a traditional Ming-style hexagonal pedestal table with an elegant marble top, creating a classic Chinoiserie aesthetic.
Key Features
Dragon and cloud motifs, Wucai color palette, hexagonal marble-top pedestal, lid with striped finial.
Color & Finish
Jar: White ground with red, yellow, green, and blue enamels. Pedestal: Dark 'oxblood' or espresso stained wood with a glossy lacquer finish and polished marble.
Construction Method
Jar: Mold-cast or wheel-thrown ceramic with hand-painted or transfer-printed enamel details. Table: Traditional mortise and tenon joinery with a stone inlay.
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Pedestal features mitered corners for the marble frame; jar displays smooth glazing but lacks the pitting of antique porcelain, suggesting modern production.
Wood Grain & Species
Pedestal likely rosewood (Huali) or a similar dense tropical hardwood with tight, straight grain. Marble shows natural variegated veining.
Surface Treatment
Jar: Overglaze polychrome enamel decoration. Table: High-gloss lacquer finish and polished stone.
Upholstery Details
None
Hardware & Fittings
None visible; the jar features a lid with a matching ceramic finial.
Origin & Provenance
China; contemporary export ware sold through home decor or import boutiques.
Condition Notes
Very Good; the glaze appears intact with no visible crazing or chips. The pedestal finish is uniform with minor dust accumulation.
Interesting Facts
The dragon depicted is a symbol of power and good luck in Chinese culture; ginger jars were originally used for transporting spices but became purely decorative in Western homes during the 18th century.
Cultural Significance
Represents the long-standing Western fascination with 'Chinoiserie,' a decorative style characterized by the use of Chinese motifs and techniques.
Similar Pieces
Kutani ware (Japan) or Famille Verte porcelain; distinguished by the specific red-and-yellow dragon motif common to Chinese Wucai.
Care & Maintenance
Dust ceramics with a soft cloth; clean marble only with pH-neutral cleaners to avoid etching; polish wood with high-quality wax; avoid direct sunlight to prevent lacquer fading.
Value Estimate
Retail: $150 - $300 for the set. Value is driven by decorative appeal rather than antique rarity.
Sustainability Notes
Natural materials used (stone, wood, ceramic), though lacquer and kiln-firing have environmental footprints. Its durability ensures a long lifecycle.