Chinese Qing dynasty Kuang-tung ware Martaban
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Department of the University of Pretoria Art
Abstract
Description
This light-brown lead-glazed earthenware Kuang-tung type Maratban has six alternating with six ruyi emblems on its high shoulder. It is further decorated with moulded dragons, storks and seals below a band containing a floral scroll. The base is dented, unglazed and unmarked. Martabans are robust stoneware storage jars which were used throughout Asia and in their time served the function of modern crates, barrels and containers. These jars came in a great variety of forms. Bulbous or slim, narrow or large-necked, smooth or textured, glazed or unglazed, these jars were made in colours ranging from the lightest gray or brown to deep red and almost black. Delicate porcelains and other merchandise were often transported in such Martabans. These large storage pots were first encountered by Arab traders at the port of Martaban and they then named the pots after the port.
Keywords
Storage jar