Description: Late 18th century Qing Dynasty lip balm pottery jar made during the reign of Emperor Qianlong (1735–1796).Hand spun, Guan Ware earthenware has a high silica and alkali content giving this piece it's distinctive texture.

History: From Pre-Imperial times, Chinese women had desired pale skin. As agriculture became increasingly important to the culture and the economy, tanned skin grew to be associated with a working class made up of farmers and fishermen.While noble women at first desired a whiter complexion to show that they did not have to work, however, a powdered face and smooth skin soon became a fashion statement. During the Tang dynasty, courtesans began taking more extreme measures to lighten the skin on their faces. While they continued to press on white powders made from lead, they also used special gels and lotions derived from natural ingredients to remove pigment and permanently bleach their skin. One of the most popular gels was made from songyi mushrooms, an ingredient that is still used in many skin lighteners today.

Provenance: Helen & Dr. Roland Kohen, Miami, FL

Dimensions: Weight (Pounds & Ounces) = 0.04 | Height(in) = 1.25 | Width(in) = 1.5 | Depth(in) = 1.5

Size of Artwork(in): 1.25" x 1.5" x 1.5"

Artist Name: Unknown

Medium: Earthenware, softpaste

Circa: Late18th century

This jar is in excellent condition. Upon inspection no scratches, chips, dings or dents were observed. A fine craquelure pattern is found on the bottom of the jar.