Welcome to Objets de Vertu

Scholars’ objects were the luxury goods of their time in China. Rather than wealth what they really represented was the physical embodiment of the scholar’s intellectual curiosity and highest aesthetic taste. Objects of Virtu brings to you a colelction of the finest objects that might be found in the scholar-conisseur's studio.

Our promise

  • Guaranteed authenticy

    We quantee the authenticity of all of the items sold on Objects of Virtu so you can shop with peace of mind.

  • Secure checkout

    Buy with confidence on our secure site with fully protected online payment methods.

  • Buyer protection

    If for any reason you are not fully satisfied with your purchase we off a no-hassle money back guarantee.

1 3

Curated objects

1 8
View all

Explore by discipline

1 4

Explore by Dynasty

Browse our collection by Chinese dynasty - from Song to Ming, to Qing to Republic. Read about the unique design characteristics of over 2,000 years of Chinese history and how art and design practices developed through the periods.

Song dynasty

The Song (960-1279 CE) and Yuan (1279-1368 CE) dynasties are renowned for their production of ceramics – using a variety of techniques to produce both utilitarian and decorative wares. The Song Dynasty was a period of great innovation in ceramic production, with the introduction of new glazes, colors, and designs.

Many of the most iconic Song wares, such as the famous sky-blue Ru glazed porcelain, were first developed during this period. Song advances in ceramic production also included the use of bright colored glazes and intricate designs, which were often inspired by nature.

Explore Song ceramics

Yuan dynasty

The Yuan Dynasty was a period of transition in ceramic production, as the Chinese began to adopt the Islamic techniques for producing glazes. This period also saw the introduction of new designs and motifs, such as the dragon motif, which is still popular today.

Explore Yuan ceramics

Ming dynasty

Ming (1368-1644 CE) and Qing (1644-1911 CE) dynasty ceramics are some of the most innovative and inconic in Chinese history. During these dynasties, Chinese potters pushed the boundaries of ceramic technology to produce a range of wares that are highly admired by collectors.

The Ming Dynasty is renowned for its production of white and blue-and-white porcelain, which were decorated with intricate designs and colorful glazes. These wares often featured scenes from Chinese mythology or nature, as well as symbols that conveyed religious or philosophical messages.

Explore Ming Ceramics

Qing dynasty

The Qing Dynasty is best known for its production of polychrome wares, which were decorated with a variety of colors and designs. These wares often featured traditional Chinese motifs and symbols, such as dragons and phoenixes.

Explore Qing ceramics

Contemporary ~ Republic - Present

Contemporary, including Chinese Republic ceramics were produced during the Chinese Republic period, which lasted from 1912 to 1949.

During this period, Chinese potters developed new techniques and designs, which allowed them to produce a wide variety of wares.

Chinese Republic ceramics often featured bright colors and intricate designs, which were often inspired by Chinese mythology or nature. These wares were often decorated with symbols and motifs, such as dragons, phoenixes, and flowers, which conveyed religious or philosophical messages.

Explore Republic & Contemporary Ceramics