Black Glazed Terracotta Storage Jar From Peking - 19th Century Finish - Burgundy Lacquer The mould is ithen dried

The mould is ithen dried and fired in an oven with cow-dung cakes

which was erected by Tokugawa Ieyasu (徳川家康)

revealing layers of earlier finishes beneath and creating a richly textured patina that highlights the depth of the carving

Crafted from a combination of walnut and elm

this piece is animated by a series of sinuous serpents that weave dynamically across the surface

Black Glazed Terracotta Storage Jar From Peking - 19th Century Finish - Burgundy Lacquer The mould is ithen driedChinese black glazed stoneware storage jars like these originate from Shanxi province and date to the late 19th century and early 20th century. They were used for storing rice wine, vinegar & oils. These we're utility items and show some signs of ware from frequent use. This jar is around 150 years old and would look fantastic in a contemporary home with dried flowers or planted with a tall houseplant such as a parlour palm.