Han Terracotta Polychrome Hu Vessel

Object Description

A finely sculpted Han terracotta hu jar featuring a globular body which sits on a wide cylindrical foot with a flat base and gradually tapers towards a long, slender neck. The vessel has a wide opening with a flat, everted rim. The jar has a low-domed lid, with a wide overhanging rim. The surface retains faint traces of pigment; some discernible outlines, particularly around the belly of the vessel, are reminiscent of the mystic clouds pattern (xiangyun), a traditional Chinese motif of stylised scrolling clouds.

Date: Circa 206 BC- AD 9
Period: Han Dynasty

Object History

Private UK collection, brought from a West country collection in 1990’s.

Object Condition

Very fine condition. The vessel and the lid are intact. The painted design has mostly faded, with some areas more clear. Chipping to the edges of the lid and the base.

Object Details