Jar

Accession Number
1993/1.80

Title
Jar

Artist(s)
Chinese

Artist Nationality
Chinese (culture or style)

Object Creation Date
4th century BCE

Medium & Support
stoneware

Dimensions
12 3/8 in x 11 5/8 in x 11 5/8 in (31.4 cm x 29.5 cm x 29.5 cm)

Credit Line
Gift of Domino's Pizza, Inc.

Subject matter
This is an earthenware storage jar from the Warring States Period (475-221 BCE) of the Eastern Zhou Dynasty (770-256 BCE).  The Warring States Period was part of the bronze age, however, bronze production at this time was very expensive and only the most wealthy could afford it. Earthenware production became a major industry, produced in private workshops. They were made for eating, storing food, and making sacrifices as well as vessels to be placed within tombs. This type of jar is typical of those produced in the south, being coil built and then beaten with a textured paddle to give it an impressed or stamped geometric design.  

Physical Description
This tall earthenware jar with wide shoulders and tapered base. Its wide mouth has a straight, flaring rim. The jar is stamped or paddled all over with geometric pattern, and it has a black, carbonized surface from firing.  

Primary Object Classification
Ceramic

Primary Object Type
jar

Collection Area
Asian

Rights
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Keywords
ceramic (material)
earthenware
jar
jars

1 Related Resource

Before 1492
(Part of 3 Learning Collections)

& Author Notes

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