Chinese Ceramic Lidded Pitcher

A pear with a spout, a handle, and the color of a quiet morning.

Potters at the Yue kiln in Zhejiang Province, China, made this lidded pitcher in porcelain in the 19th century. Yue wares are known for soft green glazes, and pitchers of this kind are commonly used for serving wine or tea. The body is pear-shaped, with a long curved spout and a looped handle. A small knob tops the lid, which has a pair of vents. The pale celadon green glaze has fine crackle and slight shading.

About seven inches tall. A tea moment, waiting.