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What are Ginger Jar Lamps?

C. Daw
C. Daw

Ginger jar lamps are a designer lamp that is modeled after the ancient ginger jar that was hand produced in China during the 10th century. This hand painted lamp was designed with the original jar in mind, keeping the same style and design themes. The ginger jar would be set out as a decorative piece, and then small table lamps where placed inside them. This formed into a manufacturing concept that led to a now popular lamp design that can be found in areas around the world.

As with all other forms of home decorations, ginger jar lamps come in many different styles. Some of the more popular ones are hand painted by little known artists, which make them affordable for average income people. Some more expensive versions can also be found that have been painted by very well known artists, making them collectibles in two different ways. The more known that the artist is, and the more detail that goes into the design, the higher the price tag will be. Individuals have begun to use these lamps to highlight specific areas within their homes or businesses, adding a decorative style that cannot be matched by any other type of lamp.

Woman with hand on her hip
Woman with hand on her hip

The two best features associated with ginger jar lamps are the unique design that each one of them has, and the fact that they are made from ceramic or porcelain. Even though the original ginger jar was made from porcelain, they were found to be extremely fragile, so modern day manufacturers make these lamps out of ceramic to maintain the appeal of them while offering a slightly more sturdy lamp designed for constant use. Being made from these two types of materials allows them to be painted in numerous different shades, and it allows the hand painters to be able to use their personal skills to enhance the look and themes. Most of these lamps still follow the original Oriental style traditions, but they are also made to accent any decorative style throughout the world.

Ginger jar lamps are a modern day lamp designed after the original ginger jars of ancient times. The basic designs and concepts were kept, along with the hand painted themes, but they have been updated for modern use and match the styles in demand. Accenting a room with these ginger jar lamps has become increasing popular in many areas because it adds a unique, old style decorative accent. They are also a prized collector’s item if they have been painted by a famous artist, and can be worth a substantial amount of money.

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