Blue & White Ginger Jars
The ginger jar originated from the Qin dynasty (221-207BC) where they were used to store herbs and spices, including ginger. As these items became traded, the ceramic jars were also used to transport the aromatic contents to the Western world. Hence the name “ginger jars”.
Though these pieces were originally intended as utilitarian objects, these attractive vessels soon became items coveted by art collectors in the West, because they embodied Chinese design and art. By the 19th century, ginger jars were ubiquitous in homes, proudly displayed to show their traditional blue and white patterns, or intricate and colourful motifs. Today, they are still celebrated as objects of beauty in both museums and living rooms.
The Peranakan Heritage
The Peranakans are descendants of early South Chinese traders and merchants who settled along the Malacca Straits in the 15th and 16th centuries, mainly in the areas of Singapore, Malacca and Penang. They are also called "Baba-Nyonya".
These early settlers often took Malay or Indonesian brides and as a result, developed a unique culture infusing very distinct Chinese flavours into the local Malay culture. And you can see that in their language, dress, cuisine, architecture, designs and porcelain ware.
The affluent Peranakans had porcelain made from China, but custom made to their preference for vibrant colours like turquoise, all shades of pink, sunny yellow, and green. You will often see the phoenix and peony featured in many porcelain pieces, as they are auspicious symbols.
Blessed are they who see beautiful things in humble places where other people see nothing. ~ Camille Pissarro
