Classic Chinese Pottery Vases for a Touch of Oriental Elegance
Whether you're searching for an elegant pottery vase to enhance your kitchen shelf or a finely painted piece to sit proudly on a sideboard, Chinese pottery vases are ideal for adding a classic oriental touch to your home. At Shimu, our collections offer a variety of these graceful items, from ceramic vases and sturdy terracotta pieces to tall holders and artistic figures. Whatever your preference, our selection of Chinese pottery vases will bring charm and style into your space.
Tradition and craftmanship together
The Chinese pottery vase, a key part of China's artistic past, can trace its beginnings to the Neolithic period. Early vases were practical, unpolished, and decorated with simple geometric impressions. These first examples laid the groundwork for what became a highly skilled art form.
From this, the Yangshao culture appeared, based near the Yellow River and known for painted pottery featuring balanced brush designs in black and red. The Longshan culture followed, developing polished black pottery with a refined look. Pottery from this time often served ceremonial or burial purposes, not just daily use.
Moving into the Shang Dynasty, potters began creating tougher stoneware with early glaze techniques. The first light-coloured pieces, made using kaolin clay, also emerged then, forming the basis for porcelain. The Han Dynasty saw more progress, with the appearance of glazed ceramics used in tombs. Later, the Tang Dynasty introduced the well-known three-colour glaze style.
The Song Dynasty is often linked with the most refined examples, especially pale green celadon and early blue designs. Later, during the Yuan and Ming periods, production of blue-decorated wares increased. Ming pottery is recognised for its fine cobalt blue work, while the Qing period brought colourful, patterned styles such as pink and green designs with detailed painting.
Design in Chinese pottery vases
Chinese pottery vase patterns are more than surface detail, often linked to stories and traditional values. Dragons, for example, symbolise strength and protection and are common in many vases. The lotus, a mark of peace and wisdom, also features often, showing the connection between art and nature.
The colour choice in these vases also has a special meaning, as blue and white, a style from the Ming era, typically shows scenes from history or nature. This timeless combination has attracted admirers worldwide for its clear, crisp look.
Texture and surface finish also matter, and from polished vase surfaces to rougher traditional storage pieces, each vase has its own feel. The fine cracks seen in some finishes aren’t flaws but add to the character and uniqueness of each piece.
Chinese pottery vases in modern rooms
Here at Shimu, we know that interior styles are always shifting, and we believe that Chinese pottery vases can still play a strong part in present-day design. Our selection matches older artistic methods with present-day taste, making each vase a pleasing and useful addition to any setting.
These pottery vases are perfect for enhancing any room in your home. Our antique vases and older jars, for example, work well in sleek, uncluttered kitchens, giving a hint of style without being overpowering. A well-placed pottery vase can offer contrast; for example, a traditional oil jug or spice vase, set within a modern apartment, creates interest through difference, letting old and new sit comfortably side by side.
Chinese pottery vases in modern rooms
At Shimu, we offer a wide range of Chinese pottery vases and ceramics. Our stock includes patterned blue vases, pottery stools, antique stoneware pots, and shaped decorations. These pieces are well-suited to both contemporary and traditional interiors, all made using time-tested techniques.
We also have an ever-changing selection of antique vases and jars, giving buyers the chance to bring home a true part of the past. Alongside our vases and pots, we offer both modern and antique wooden furniture, sourced by us in China. All new pieces are hand-built using traditional woodwork joints.
We provide a wide choice of items for the home, such as lighting, wall pieces, fabrics, candles and much more. Everything is available to buy online with delivery across the UK, or you're welcome to visit our open showroom in Albion Mills, Greengates, West Yorkshire.
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