Accession Number
1993/1.58.1-2

Title
Covered Tripod Vessel

Artist(s)
Chinese

Artist Nationality
Chinese (culture or style)

Object Creation Date
206 BCE-25 CE

Medium & Support
earthenware with mineral paint

Dimensions
8 in x 9 5/16 in x 8 1/4 in (20.32 cm x 23.6 cm x 21 cm);6 1/2 in x 8 7/8 in x 8 1/4 in (16.5 cm x 22.6 cm x 21 cm);1 5/8 in x 8 1/4 in x 8 1/4 in (4.2 cm x 21 cm x 21 cm)

Credit Line
Gift of Domino's Pizza, Inc.

Subject matter
These types of polychrome painted lian (奁, tripod incense burning vessels) were made in northern workshops of the Western Han dynasty (206 BCE-25 CE). Burning incense was a common practice during the Han dynasty to expel evil spirits. Ceramic incense burners have primarily been found in tombs in Henan province. 
 
The scrolling cloud design, thought to be an auspicious motif with the power to ward off evil spirits, is the predominant decoration on Han artifacts and can be found in all media. Polychrome painted earthenware ceramics were found primarily in aristocratic and elite tombs. 

Physical Description
This gray earthenware cylindrical vessel rests on three articulated feet. It is covered with a low, domed cap lid.  Painted on the body and lid is a scrolling cloud motif in red, white, purple, and black mineral pigments.

Primary Object Classification
Ceramic

Primary Object Type
jar

Additional Object Classification(s)
Ceramic

Collection Area
Asian

Rights
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Keywords
ceramic (material)
clouds
containers (receptacles)
earthenware
grave goods
incense burners
jars
mineral pigment
vessels (containers)