Antique 18th Century Chinese Martaban Jar | Brown Glazed Ceramic Storage Vessel With Dragon Head Handles & Engraved Motifs
Collection
18th Century Chinese Jar: Lion head handles & dragon motif on brown glazed ceramic.
18th Century Chinese Jar: Lion head handles & dragon motif on brown glazed ceramic.
Historical Artifact: Handcrafted Chinese Martaban jar with lion head handles.
Engraved Dragons: Brown glazed Martaban jar - A story in ceramic (China).
Chinese Ceramics: Antique Martaban jar - A unique blend of artistry and function.
Functional Artwork: 18th century Chinese jar - A decorative storage solution.

Price

£579

Materials

Clay & Earthenware

Period

Mid 18th Century

Place of origin

China

SKU

DP-GH-22-022

Dimensions

Width: 43 cmHeight: 56 cmDepth: 43 cmWeight: 37 kg
Quantity:

Available Stock: 3

About the product

Antique Mid-18th Century Chinese Martaban Jar

Brown-Glazed Ceramic Storage Vessel with Sculpted Dragon Head Handles
Circa 1700s | Maritime Heritage | Collector’s Ceramic

Uncover the story of ancient trade, imperial symbolism, and masterful ceramic artistry with this rare mid-18th century Martaban jar from China. Originally crafted as a utilitarian vessel for the bustling maritime routes of Southeast Asia, this ceramic piece has transcended its functional origins to become a museum-worthy artefact of global history and visual splendour.

A Vessel of Culture, Trade & Power

Hand-thrown from high-fired clay and finished in a rich brown glaze, this jar features five prominent sculpted dragon head loop handles, a traditional form reserved for elite or ceremonial storage jars. The wide mouth and tapering base reflect its original purpose—for storing oils, grains, or water—while the engraved band of dragons chasing the flaming pearl lends a mythic aura to its utilitarian shape.

In Chinese folklore, the flaming pearl symbolises prosperity, enlightenment, and divine protection—its inclusion in this piece suggests both status and spiritual reverence.

Key Features

  • Date: Mid-1700s (18th Century), Qing Dynasty period

  • Origin: China, likely exported via Southeast Asian trade routes

  • Material: High-fired clay with traditional brown-glaze finish

  • Handles: Five sculpted dragon head loops for rope or lifting

  • Motifs: Hand-carved dragons and flaming pearl band encircling the belly

  • Finish: Naturally weathered glaze with pitting, age spots, and wear consistent with centuries of use

  • Cultural Significance: Maritime trade vessel now appreciated as imperial folk art

Dimensions

  • Width: 43 cm

  • Height: 56 cm

  • Depth: 43 cm

  • Weight: 37 kg

Why Collectors Love It

  • A rare survivor from the 18th-century Chinese trade era

  • Combines sculpture, ceramic mastery, and sacred symbolism

  • Works as a decorative centrepiece, museum collectible, or heritage conversation starter

  • A piece of cross-cultural history that adds narrative depth to modern interiors

Styling Tip

Use it as a sculptural floor vase in minimalist or wabi-sabi interiors, or flank a console with it in heritage-inspired settings. Its aged glaze and tactile surface pair beautifully with stone, dark woods, and linen.

Exclusively available at Regen Bespoke
Storied. Sculptural. Timeless.