Ginger jar - Copper, Enamel - Dragon Ginger Jar
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Selected by Sarah Le Helley
Studied Asian art and art market management; researched art in Taipei; worked in auctions.
Estimate € 150 - € 200
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Copper and enamel dragon ginger jar from China, dating to ca. 1930–1940, 25 × 28 × 21 cm, titled Dragon Ginger Jar, in good condition with small signs of ageing and two exterior damages as shown.
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Description from the seller
A striking, large ginger jar with dragons chasing a pearl.
The dragon motif (龙, lóng) is one of the most important symbols in Chinese culture and is traditionally associated with imperial power, strength, and cosmic order. The five-clawed dragon was reserved for the emperor and signified the highest rank, and its presence on objects emphasised prestige as well as aspirations to authority and prosperity.
The pearl, often depicted as the so-called “flaming pearl” (火珠, huǒzhū), is a key attribute of the dragon and symbolises wisdom, spiritual energy, and the fulfilment of desires. A dragon pursuing or grasping the pearl is interpreted as an image of the quest for knowledge and cosmic truth, as well as a sign of power controlling the forces of nature.
The accompanying stylised clouds (yunwen) symbolise the celestial realm and the dynamic movement of qi in which the dragon moves, acting as a ruler of the elements—especially water and rain.
The composition as a whole has an apotropaic and auspicious character, expressing protection, prosperity, and harmony between heaven and earth.
The ginger jar has two noticeable damages to the outer, depicted in pictures. Overall condition assessed as very good minus, taking into account the quality of workmanship.
Please, have a good look at the condition of the object. We do not accept returns. We do not take responsibility for the damage caused by the transportation. We currently do not ship to the US.
A striking, large ginger jar with dragons chasing a pearl.
The dragon motif (龙, lóng) is one of the most important symbols in Chinese culture and is traditionally associated with imperial power, strength, and cosmic order. The five-clawed dragon was reserved for the emperor and signified the highest rank, and its presence on objects emphasised prestige as well as aspirations to authority and prosperity.
The pearl, often depicted as the so-called “flaming pearl” (火珠, huǒzhū), is a key attribute of the dragon and symbolises wisdom, spiritual energy, and the fulfilment of desires. A dragon pursuing or grasping the pearl is interpreted as an image of the quest for knowledge and cosmic truth, as well as a sign of power controlling the forces of nature.
The accompanying stylised clouds (yunwen) symbolise the celestial realm and the dynamic movement of qi in which the dragon moves, acting as a ruler of the elements—especially water and rain.
The composition as a whole has an apotropaic and auspicious character, expressing protection, prosperity, and harmony between heaven and earth.
The ginger jar has two noticeable damages to the outer, depicted in pictures. Overall condition assessed as very good minus, taking into account the quality of workmanship.
Please, have a good look at the condition of the object. We do not accept returns. We do not take responsibility for the damage caused by the transportation. We currently do not ship to the US.
Details
Era
1900-2000
Title additional information
Dragon Ginger Jar
Country of origin
China
Material
Copper, Enamel
Condition
Good condition - used with small signs of ageing
Height
25 cm
Width
28 cm
Depth
21 cm
Estimated period
1930-1940
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