Ginger Jars

Buy Ginger Jars

Our ginger jars—hand-painted porcelain icons—bridge the worlds of museum-quality art and interior design. Kuzco Art Maison transforms interiors into spaces as inspiring as gallery exhibitions. Drawing on our art-historical expertise (Art, Market & Connoisseurship; Museum Studies), we curate a collection ginger jars that captivates both eye and soul.

What is a Ginger Jar?

A ginger jar (also known as a Chinese lidded jar or covered jar) is a bulbous porcelain vessel with a fitted lid. The classic form features blue and white decoration, a short neck, and a matching lid (sometimes topped with a lion or foo dog finial).

Historical purpose: Storing and transporting preserved ginger, tea, and exotic spices.

Modern purpose: Sculptural decorative object displayed in pairs on mantels, sideboards, or console tables; also functions as a vase when used with or without the lid.

Defining Characteristics

• Material: Chinese hard-paste porcelain (kaolin + feldspar/petuntse), high-fired at approximately 1400°C → fully vitrified and non-porous.
• Quality indicator: A clear, resonant 'ping' when gently tapped on the rim.
• Decoration: Hand-painted floral motifs and symbolic imagery (phoenix/fenghuang, peony, clouds, ruyi borders, lappet bands).

Why Are They Called Ginger Jars?

During the Ming and Qing dynasties, these vessels were filled with pickled ginger. They arrived in Europe via the Dutch East India Company; the form became beloved and the name "ginger jar" persisted, even as their purpose shifted from functional to decorative and ceremonial.

Why Buy a Ginger Jar?

• Timeless aesthetic – Blue and white porcelain feels at home in classic interiors whilst lending refined character to contemporary minimalism.
• Investment-quality material – Dense, hard-paste porcelain with enduring lustre; exceptionally easy to maintain.
• Auspicious symbolism – Phoenix (virtue/happiness), peony (prosperity/honour) make these exceptional gift pieces.
• Styling impact – A single large statement piece as a centrepiece or a mirrored pair for balance and symmetry.
• Kuzco quality – We select for excellence in craftsmanship, technique, and historical accuracy; where appropriate, we employ subtle ageing finishes to capture the character of antique pieces without compromising condition.

Our methodology mirrors that of our Amélie collection: pure kaolin and petuntse, high-fired to 1400°C, fully glazed—the formula for porcelain with heft, density, and that distinctive resonance. We demand the same standard for our ginger jars.

History of Chinese Ginger Jars

Jingdezhen emerged during the Ming dynasty as the epicentre of blue and white porcelain production. In the Qing period, ginger jars were manufactured extensively for both domestic ritual use and export markets. The late Qing/Republic era (circa 1880–1930) saw prolific production of pairs with lion-topped lids and lion-mask handles—precisely the silhouette that became iconic in Western interiors.

Types of Ginger Jars & Styles

Blue and White Ginger Jars (Classic)

Hand-painted underglaze cobalt blue; motifs include phoenix, dragon, peony, lotus blossom, shou characters, ruyi borders. The most sought-after variety worldwide.

Monochrome & Specialist Glazes

White, celadon, oxblood (sang-de-boeuf), black, or turquoise—restrained colour palettes with strong presence in modern settings.

Famille Palettes

Famille verte and famille rose (overglaze enamels) featuring figurative scenes and garden vignettes; richer colours and heightened decorative appeal.

Temple Jar vs Ginger Jar

Temple jars are taller with an angled shoulder and pointed lid; ginger jars are rounder and more compact. Both combine beautifully to create height variation in displays.

Antique, Vintage, or New Ginger Jars

• Antique/Qing–Republic: Unique brushwork, authentic patina.
• Vintage 20th century: Character-rich, accessible.
• New & hand-painted: Bespoke sizing for projects, set formation possible, museum-standard quality and craftsmanship faithful to historical exemplars.

Styling & Display (Curator's Note)

• Symmetry works. A pair of ginger jars frames a mantelpiece or console and establishes visual calm.
• With or without lid. Lidded, it becomes sculpture; unlidded, it functions as a vase for branches or dried arrangements.
• Material pairings. Porcelain combined with bronze or marble (other Kuzco materials) amplifies the tactile richness of the composition.

Caring for Your Ginger Jar

Keep dust-free with a soft cloth; hand-wash when necessary using lukewarm water and mild soap. No dishwasher. Felt pads beneath the base protect surfaces; avoid sudden temperature changes and harsh southern light.

Ginger Jar FAQs

Is a Ginger Jar Watertight?

Yes. Chinese porcelain is fully glazed and fired, making it completely watertight.

What's the Difference Between Ginger Jars and Delftware?

Delftware = earthenware with tin glaze (softer white, porous). Chinese blue and white = porcelain (harder, more glass-like, clearer).

Do Ginger Jars Work in Modern Interiors?

Absolutely. Chinese porcelain ginger jars bring character and distinction to contemporary spaces. Kuzco Art Maison porcelain is timeless and makes your interior unique.