\nChina, Sichuan region <\/em>
\nHan Dynasty (206 BC – 220) <\/em>
\nH. 31 cm <\/em><\/p>\n
360\u00b0 view
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This hu \u58fa vase made of terra-cotta is covered with a lead glaze, which gives it its green colour and shimmering appearance. This technique, developed by Han Dynasty (206 BCE – 220 CE) artisans – who were among the first to master lead-based glazes; gives their vases these deep green tones. The colour green has a particular symbolism in China, as it recalls the preciousness of jade, a material prized since ancient times. The interior has kept the natural colour of the clay.<\/p>\n
The hu vase, whose typology dates back to Antiquity, corresponds to a wine vase, and can take on various forms. Here, the circular base is topped by a globular body and a narrow neck that widens slightly at the lip.<\/p>\n
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The body is decorated with moulded rings that separate smooth areas. Fine geometric motifs in slight relief complete this sober decoration. Between them, on either side of the shoulder, is a decorative handle surmounted by a Taotie mask \u9955\u992e, a recurring ornament in the Chinese repertoire. The combination of the taotie and the knocker forms the so-called pushou motif.<\/p>\n
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This hu vase is in a very good state of preservation, apart from slight damage, notably to the body and lip of the vase.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Glazed earthenware<\/em> 360\u00b0 view
\nChina, Sichuan region <\/em>
\nHan Dynasty (206 BC – 220) <\/em>
\nH. 31 cm <\/em><\/p>\n
\n<\/strong>\n
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