Pair of Famille Noire Ginger Jars with Pheasants & Peonies — Early 20th Century, Hand-Painted, with Stands
CHF 420
Two ceramic ginger jars, hand-painted in the Famille Noire style — black-glazed background with lively scenes of pheasants, peonies, and assorted foliage.
The birds look mildly surprised, the flowers are in full bloom, and the color palette leans into greens, pinks, whites, and browns. Each jar comes with its lid and sits atop a carved wooden stand (included, no extra charge).
They’re a pair, not twins — similar in spirit but not identical in detail. Not factory twins — more like cousins from the same artistic family. Their differences hint at hand-painted origins, not conveyor belts. That slight mismatch adds charm and character, making them ideal for mantel symmetry, shelf drama, or just to keep your houseplants company.
Why “ginger jar”? Originally, these lidded vessels were used in China to store spices — ginger being one of them. But over time, they became more decorative than practical. So yes, they could have held ginger… but these ones are more likely to hold compliments from your dinner guests.
Stamped on the base with a red Guangxu reign mark (大清光绪年制), these jars nod to the late Qing dynasty (1875–1908). While the mark references imperial times, the style and craftsmanship suggest they were made in the early 20th century — likely in Jingdezhen, where porcelain traditions run deep. A bit of history, a lot of charm.
Origin: China, likely Jingdezhen
Date: Early 20th century
Mark: Red stamped reign mark — 大清光绪年制 (“Made during the Guangxu period of the Great Qing Dynasty”)
Material: Porcelain with enamel decoration
Style: Famille Noire
Motif: Pheasants, peonies, assorted foliage
Color Palette: Black ground with greens, pinks, whites, and browns
Condition: Excellent vintage condition — no visible cracks or chips. One lid has a small repair to the knob (likely broken off at some point); the fix is discreet and doesn’t shout for attention.
Included: Two jars, two lids, two carved wooden stands
Dimensions: Approx. 35 cm tall with lid and stand; approx. 25 cm at widest point
