Ancient Chinese glazed stoneware vase – China, circa 1890

This ancient Chinese glazed stoneware vase is an ovoid jar with olive amber glaze and hand-painted decoration in iron brown. It originates from China, from the Qing dynasty, when stoneware was fired in provincial kilns for domestic use. These stoneware jars were used to store food and liquids in the Chinese home, with a glaze applied by dipping that leaves the foot uncovered. Today, they are appreciated as decorative vases. The body is made of high-fired stoneware, with an ash glaze applied by dipping and a painted decoration under the glaze. The mouth is wide and flared, without handles. The decoration is hand-painted with iron oxide: a frieze of scallops under the rim and a lattice of crossed lines on the body. It features a simple geometric repertoire, typical of folk ceramics, which highlights the utilitarian nature of the piece. The olive amber glaze shows the irregularities of the kiln and a gentle wear, while the bare stoneware of the foot contrasts with the glaze. The surface appears authentic, without any restoration that masks it. Due to its size and design, it can be used as a vase for dried flowers, a table piece, or an accent on a shelf. It fits into wabi-sabi, japandi, and rustic interiors, where it adds warmth and texture. Details. Dimensions: Length 17 cm – Depth 17 cm – Height 22 cm. Style: Qing Dynasty. Materials and techniques: Glazed stoneware; ash glaze applied by dipping; hand-painted decoration in iron brown. Place of origin: China. Period: Qing Dynasty. Date of manufacture: Circa 1890. Condition / Observations: Good. Glaze with kiln irregularities and gentle wear, with age-related marks. Wear consistent with age and use.