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 | Qing Dynasty | Maritime Heritage | Collector’s Ceramic

A Vessel of Trade, Culture, and Power

This rare mid-18th century Martaban jar embodies the crossroads of Chinese craftsmanship and Southeast Asian maritime trade. Handcrafted from high-fired clay during the Qing Dynasty, it was once used to store essential goods — yet over centuries, it has transcended function to become a symbol of imperial art and global commerce.

The jar’s tactile brown-glazed surface bears the marks of age, sea travel, and human touch. Its five sculpted dragon head handles are a rare feature, reserved for vessels of high status or ceremonial use. Around the belly, a delicate engraved band of dragons chasing the flaming pearl flows in rhythmic motion, representing prosperity, wisdom, and divine protection in Chinese lore.

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

  • Handles: Five sculpted dragon head loops

  • Motifs: Engraved dragons and flaming pearl motif encircling the vessel

  • Finish: Naturally aged glaze with pitting and surface wear

  • Cultural Value: Once a utilitarian trade vessel, now regarded as a work of imperial folk art

Dimensions

  • Width: 43 cm

  • Height: 56 cm

  • Depth: 43 cm

  • Weight: Approx. 37 kg

Why This Piece Matters

This 18th-century Chinese Martaban jar is more than a ceramic — it is a time capsule of trade, craftsmanship, and cultural exchange. Once carried aboard merchant ships bound for Southeast Asia, it speaks of a world connected by art and commerce. Its expressive glaze and sculpted details capture both imperial refinement and rustic authenticity, making it a collector’s treasure and a sculptural focal point for contemporary interiors.

Styling Inspiration

Display as a floor vase in minimalist or wabi-sabi settings, or anchor it beside a console or antique chest in heritage-inspired interiors. Its earthy patina and mythic symbolism complement stone, aged wood, and linen textures beautifully.

Delivery & Collection

Safely packaged and available for UK-wide delivery or collection by appointment. For bespoke or international delivery, please contact Regen Bespoke.

Exclusively available at Regen Bespoke – Storied, Sculptural, Timeless.