Object Description
A fine Chinese Han Dynasty gray earthenware jar modelled in the shape of a miniature granary. The vessel features a wide cylindrical body leading to a domed top with a circular mouth, which is marked by a slightly everted rim. The body has been enriched with five sets of three horizontal, raised ridges, spaced evenly across the straight walls. These parallel, thin bands are known as ‘bowstring patterns’ (弦纹), a common decorative element seen on ancient Chinese vessels since the Shang and Zhou Dynasties (1600-256 BC). The jar stands upon three zoomorphic feet in the form of stylised bears, each depicted squatting with both arms raised up high as if supporting the vessel. The anatomical features have been finely sculpted including bulging eyes, a short snout and round ears. Texture has been added through linear incisions indicating the mane and fur. This vessel was likely a ‘mingqi’, a burial object placed in the tomb with the deceased in the belief that such item would be needed in the afterlife.
Date: Circa 202 BC – AD 220
Period: Han Dynasty