Friday's Why In Design Column: for the love of Ginger Jars
Today, let's explore the history of Ginger Jars
a beautifully set table using Blanc de Chine jars
photo, Better Homes & Gardens
Like many decorators, I love to incorporate wares
from around the globe into my interiors. I specifically like to mix in Chinese
porcelain and accessories with my other decorative arts, and one of my very
favorites are Ginger Jars. Originally used centuries ago in China as
canisters to store household items, such as spices, salt, sugar, these beauties
were first ceramic and then made in porcelain during the Han Dynasty during the
years 220 AD. Today they make gorgeous decorative items throughout the
home and in vignettes and even when re-purposed as lamps. My favorites
are the typical blue and white ones which were glazed first back in the Tang
Dynasty during the years 600-900. They work well in both modern and traditional design as lamps, decorative objects, cache pots and vases.
The shape is usually with a wider mouth, a top lid and a bulbous shape on
the bottom.
examples of my own Ginger Jar lamps picked up over the years
which are chic and modern
photo I took of a variety of jar lamps while shopping
at Beall & Bell Antiques in Greenport, Long Island
It is considered bad luck to give away a Ginger Jar that was
given as a gift, so hold onto yours if you can. It has been said that different colors hold special meaning...
Yellow
It was considered a special, noble gift
to give yellow Ginger Jars and they were often bestowed upon the Emporer embodying his special
color.
White
Was often given as wedding gifts, and
hand painted with personal inscriptions wishing the owner health and longevity.
Blanc de Chine are white cut jars which symbolize happiness, prosperity & fertility. They were designed with a Dragon and Phoenix
inscribed: Dragon represents the groom, Phoenix the bride.
Red
red jars bring happiness and prosperity
My favorite are the blue and white jars which espouse to bring double happiness and are gifted on special occasions with the intention to last a lifetime.
Typical blue and white jars source 1st Dibs.
photo via
When setting a table, I like to use the blue and white jars in varying heights can make a big impact
The Ginger Jar was mass produced during the 19th Century and exported around the world. Today, you can pick up an original
antique or many reproductions in the manner of the Chinoiserie style.
All the images in this post credited on my Ginger Jar board
Happy Nesting
XO Tamara
I like to vary the heights and use them mixed with plants and accessories on a hall table or set on a dining room centerpiece, and even sometimes on my outdoor table when entertaining under the pergola.
XO Tamara
