Question 1

What are ginger jars?

Accepted Answer

Ginger jars are blue and white patterned jars that were once used for transporting spices in Ancient China. Today, they serve decorative purposes in homes.

Question 2

What is a ginger jar lamp?

Accepted Answer

A ginger jar lamp pairs a lovely lampshade with an ornate Chinese spice jar to create a visually appealing lamp. The lampshades can be neutral or colorful to create a beautiful effect. Find a collection of antique and vintage table lamps on 1stDibs.

Question 3

Why is it called a ginger jar?

Accepted Answer

With a similar shape to the baluster jar, Chinese porcelain ginger jars have a rounded form, with broad shoulders tapering to the base and a narrowed neck topped by a domed lid. The unusual name comes from the export market, wherein salt and spices such as ground ginger travelled West in lidded storage vessels.

Question 4

What is the purpose of a ginger jar?

Accepted Answer

The original purpose of a ginger jar was to transport herbs and spices. It was European traders who gave the highly decorative containers their name. Today, people use ginger jars as decorations. Find a selection of ginger jars on 1stDibs.

Question 5

What is the difference between a ginger jar and a temple jar?

Accepted Answer

A ginger jar is a typically round jar that widens toward the top, or ‘shoulders’ of the jar. The narrower mouth is topped by a smooth domed lid. A temple jar features a handle or knob on the top of the lid. The jar itself is more curved as well. On 1stDibs, find a selection of ginger jars and temple jars.

Question 6

What were Chinese ginger jars used for?

Accepted Answer

Chinese ginger jars were originally made as utilitarian vessels used to store various herbs and spices. Today, they are almost exclusively decorative objects.

Question 7

What are the defining factors of a Chinese ginger jar?

Accepted Answer

Chinese ginger jars are defined by their round, compact shape, wide mouth, short neck, and fitted cover.

Question 8

What does a Chinese ginger jar look like?

Accepted Answer

A Chinese ginger jar should be fairly compact in size, with a rounded, globular or ovoid body, high shoulders, a wide circular mouth, short neck, and a fitted cover.

Tiffany Ginger Jar

Chinese Brown and White Ginger Jar Lamps, a pair

Late 20th Century American Chinoiserie Table Lamps

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Antique Chinese Famille Rose Porcelain Ginger Jars, near pair

Antique 1850s Chinese Chinese Export Porcelain

Mid-Century Modernist Ceramic Sand Colored Glazed Ginger Jar by Tiffany & Co

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Tiffany Neoclassical Sterling Silver Ginger Jar Tea Caddy

Antique Late 19th Century American Neoclassical Sterling Silver

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