This antique Chinese blue and white porcelain ginger jar was made in the Tongxi period, circa 1860–1870.
It has a full, rounded body painted with dense floral scrolls and butterflies.
Two large white reserve panels contain cobalt Double Happiness characters.
Ginger jars decorated with these characters were traditionally given as gifts, conveying wishes for happiness and harmony in the couple’s home.
The floral painting is especially beautiful, with delicate detail set against a deep cobalt ground.
Scrolling peonies and lotus blossoms fill the ground, their pale petals and leaves clearly defined against the rich blue.
The rounded body rises to a domed cover with a pointed finial.
Subtle variations in the hand-painted cobalt add depth to the floral decoration.
At 9.5 inches tall and 9 inches wide, the jar has a compact, substantial presence suited to a side table, shelf, or mantel.
Condition: Excellent
Price: $1,600
Dimensions: 9.5″ tall × 9″ diameter at the widest point × 5″ diameter at base
Decoration: Hand-painted in underglaze blue with floral scrolls, butterflies, and Double Happiness characters
Material: Porcelain
Style: Qing Dynasty, Tongzhi period
Origin: China
Date: Circa 1860–1870