Accession Number1964/2.67
TitleJar
Artist(s)ChineseArtist NationalityChinese (culture or style)Object Creation Date206 BCE - 220 CEMedium & Supportglaze on earthenwareDimensions 18 in x 12 in x 12 in (45.72 cm x 30.48 cm x 30.48 cm);18 in (45.72 cm);12 in (30.48 cm)
Credit LineMuseum purchase for the James Marshall Plumer Memorial CollectionSubject matterA red earthenware
hu (壺) jar for storing millet ale, sometimes referred to as "wine". The shape and green glaze mimick bronze forms. The two animal masks (
taotie 饕餮) holding rings, serving as decorative handles, reflect 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 Han citizens in both the middle and elite social classes.
Physical DescriptionA red earthenware, tall jar with a bulbous body, straight flaring neck with direct rim, and tall, slightly flared foot ring, with appliqué bands around the body and rim, and two animal mask decorations holding rings on opposing sides of the belly. It is covered in a green lead glaze with iridescence and calcification.
Primary Object Classification Ceramic Primary Object TypejarCollection AreaAsianRightsIf you are interested in using an image for a publication, please visit
http://umma.umich.edu/request-image for more information and to fill out the online Image Rights and Reproductions Request Form.
Keywords
ceramic (material)
earthenware
grave goods
jars
lead glaze