Antique Chinese (c 1890) Shiwan Glaze Large Tea Keg Jug Cask "Qingcha" 13.5"

This is an antique Chinese ceramic vessel used to serve tea. Likely it was served in restaurants or at large event as chilled tea. This type of ceramic container has been used since ancient times to keep water cooled. The writing on the from says "Please Tea" as in, "Please help yourself to some tea" - Qingcha. It is glazed in a beautiful shiwan green-blue glaze that has an emerald color quality to it. The lid is removed for filling and a tap interred at the bottom to dispense. The unglazed lid rim may have allowed for these to be stacked to serve larger groups.

This large ceramic jug measures about 12" in diameter by 13 1/2" tall (30.5 x 34 cm) and remains in fine condition. Great as a stand alone piece of art or possibly even an exotic statement piece for use at a large gathering. PLEASE NOTE the lid was once broken and repaired.