Hu (vase)
Datecirca 1st century B.C.E.
MediumUnglazed earthenware (grayware) with incised and applied molded decoration
DimensionsHeight: 15 1/8 in. (38.4 cm)
Credit LineGift of Dr. Harry and Mrs. Lucia Miller
Object number1995.84
Terms
- Han (Chinese)
Object TypeCeramics
On View
Not on viewThe tradition of ritual vessels used in ancestral rites was established during the Shang dynasty and continued in later dynasties. This vessel was made solely for placement in the tomb, to serve the deceased in the afterlife; the unglazed earthenware was a cheap substitute for more costly bronze.
The pair of animal-headed handles are a late manifestation of the taotie animal masks of the early Bronze Age and demonstrate the conservative nature of the ornamental vocabulary of ritual vessels. However, the fluid overall shape, curved surfaces, and pronounced lip and foot reflect contemporary Han taste.
The pair of animal-headed handles are a late manifestation of the taotie animal masks of the early Bronze Age and demonstrate the conservative nature of the ornamental vocabulary of ritual vessels. However, the fluid overall shape, curved surfaces, and pronounced lip and foot reflect contemporary Han taste.
circa 11th century B.C.E.
circa 11th century B.C.E.
circa 1st century B.C.E.
206 B.C.E. - 220
circa 11th century B.C.E.
circa 11th century B.C.E.
circa 2500 - 2200 B.C.E.
1800 - 1750 B.C.E.?
1900 - 1750 B.C.E.
circa 2500 - 2200 B.C.E.