Chinese Stoneware Storage Martaban Jars with Dragon Relief

Heavily potted in a robust baluster form, this Chinese stoneware storage jar is covered with a thick yellow glaze. With a functional purpose, the wide shoulder was equipped with a circle of loops which were used to fasten the lid to the body. These type of storage jars made in southern China, Fujian or Guangdong province since Song Dynasty for domestic use as well as export to South East Asia, Philippines and further afield, They were known as Martaban Jars in the West due to the transit port of that name in Burma. Martaban jar is a generic term for large heavy stoneware jars that were shipped out of the port of Martaban. It doesn't identify the origin of the manufacture as many jars exported from the port were made in China, Thailand and Vietnam instead of from local kilns, which could be distinguished by the different materials and styling. During the Ming dynasty, this busy port was under the jurisdiction of Thailand. These jars were documented from 14th century and the export lasted until Martaban ceased to be an important international port after the Burmese attack in 1613.
Most of these jars were plain with the functionality as a priority, but some were made with a more elaborate design such as this one. The surface was adorned with reliefs of dragons and clouds, as well as Lingzhi Mushroom pattern, a symbol of longevity, around the shoulder bands. The precise dating is not always possible as the export of these pots lasted centuries and often the same designs persisted for a long time. We estimate this jar is circa 18-19th century of Qing Dynasty, although it is possibly older. The color and the design evokes a sense of antiquity, not in a formal sense but a folky rustic aesthetic that reflects an the global trading of the ancient marine time.