19th-century Chinese glazed ceramic wine jug, circa 1880 (Qing Dynasty). Guangxu period.
It has a cylindrical shape with a narrow neck and, finishing the piece, four small handles or loops and a pouring spout. Glazed enamel in brown tones and incised decoration of horizontal bands with geometric patterns, such as zigzag lines or "spike" shapes, stylized floral or vegetal motifs, which seem to represent leaves or flowers. Used for storing and serving wine.

With a robust design, these four-handled jugs allow the weight of the container to be distributed more evenly, preventing it from concentrating on a single point, which makes them easier to handle. Furthermore, they give them additional ornamental value. These are utilitarian pieces with historical and aesthetic value.

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During the Qing Dynasty, potters began using bright colors to decorate plates, jugs, etc., with more elaborate themes and designs. They applied various underglaze pigments to floral scenes, landscapes, and figures—a style that remains highly appreciated in the West. It was precisely during this period that interest in Chinese decorative arts arose in Europe, a fashion known as chinoiserie. Their rustic aesthetic makes them highly valued as decorative or collectible pieces today.
This jug, crafted by a local artisan from clay and decorated with engraved designs, was used to store wine in a well-to-do home and reflects the typical craftsmanship of the time. Over the centuries, it has survived as a valuable reminder of everyday life then.

Condition: Fairly good, signs of wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses and slight discoloration. There are areas where the enamel is somewhat worn, especially on the upper edge, handles and base, which adds authenticity and value.

"Its interior retains the flavor of an era"

CHINESE VASE, QING DYNASTY
China (164-1912)

The item is in fairly good condition, with signs of wear consistent with its age and use, minor losses, and slight discoloration; the enamel shows wear, especially on the upper edge, handles, and base, which adds authenticity and value.

During the Qing Dynasty, especially during the Guangxu period, Chinese potters developed decorative techniques with bright colors and elaborate motifs, highly appreciated in the West. It was a boom period for both utilitarian and ornamental ceramics, coinciding with the rise of chinoiserie in Europe. Pieces like this jug reflect the daily life and refinement of well-to-do homes in 19th-century China, and today constitute valuable testimonies of traditional Chinese craftsmanship.