Accession Number
1993/1.78

Title
Jar

Artist(s)
Chinese

Artist Nationality
Chinese (culture or style)

Object Creation Date
25 CE-220 CE

Medium & Support
earthenware with lead glaze

Dimensions
18 9/16 in x 12 1/2 in x 12 1/2 in (47.2 cm x 31.8 cm x 31.8 cm)

Credit Line
Gift of Domino's Pizza, Inc.

Subject matter
This is a red earthenware hu (壺) jar for storing "wine" or millet ale. The shape and green glaze is in imitation of bronze forms. The two animal masks (taotie, 饕餮) hold rings serving as decorative handles, reflecting contemporary bronze doorknockers. These types of jars were made in abundance as funerary storage vessels to supply for the afterlife and have been found in the tombs of both middle and elite classes of Han citizens. 

Physical Description
This tall, red earthenware jar with bulbous body has a tall, curved, flaring neck with a flaring, articulated, dish-shaped rim, and tall straight foot ring. Appliqué bowstring bands wind around the body and rim, and two animal mask decorations in low relief hold rings on opposing sides of the belly.  The jar is covered in a green lead glaze with iridescence and calcification.

Primary Object Classification
Ceramic

Primary Object Type
jar

Additional Object Classification(s)
Ceramic

Collection Area
Asian

Rights
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Keywords
ceramic (material)
ceramics (object genre)
earthenware
grave goods
jars
lead glaze
wine bottles