Chinese Ginger Jar with Lid

Amber glass the color of strong tea held up to a window.

This ginger jar with lid was made of amber glass in Hebei Province, China, in the early 20th century. Lidded jars of this baluster shape are commonly associated with storing tea, sweets and ginger, and later served as decorative display pieces. The body swells at the shoulder and tapers to a small foot, and the glass shows small bubbles and soft wave lines in the blowing. A domed lid with a round knob sits on a lightly gilded rim. Light passes through in warm, deep gold.

About 18 inches tall. Put it where the afternoon sun reaches.