Ancient Chinese Han Dynasty Pottery Terracotta Hu Vase Vessel 206 BC

  

A large ancient Chinese Western Han Dynasty pottery hu, dating to 206 BC 9 AD. The body adorned with confident brushstrokes of green and white depicting a sinous dragon creeping around the outside of the vessel. Sitting upon a ring base, rising to a wide body with short, slightly flaring neck and cut mouth.

The two appliqued animal masks. , seek to replicate the style of contemporary bronze vessels produced during the period. On close inspection the neck also appears to be painted with highly abstract faces contained in a triangular border. These elegant vases were used as storage vessels for wine and other liquids, and were ultimately intended for use in the afterlife as a show of wealth and status.

The shape of this wonderful piece was influenced by far older bronze wine vessels produced for the elite of ancient Chinese society from the late Shang Dynasty through the Warring States. Though hu vessels are often found on the market, it is rare to encounter such a large example with excellent original pigment preservation, the original lid in place and deriving from a prominent private collection. Please note that in some of the images provided (first two and last three) this vessel has been lightly misted with water to accentuate the original pigment.

The piece may benefit from cleaning. Height including lid: 16 5/8 inches.

Condition: Good, restored from large fragments. Formerly in the collection of Mr.

O'Hara the full name and a picture copy of an oil painting of Mr. O'Hara will be provided to the new purchaser upon request. O'Hara was a prominent numismatist, author and collector who in later life developed a passion for Chinese terracotta art of the Han - Song period. Authenticity All items are unconditionally guaranteed to be Authentic as described.

We send paper invoices incorporating a signed certificate of authenticity and photograph of the item. As legitimate sellers, we abide by United Kingdom and European Union Export regulations. Please note that in most countries, antiques and collectibles are eligible for minimal/zero charges on importation.

ArtAncient Limited is registered in England no. 06376708 Vat registration no: GB 948 9832 53. The item "Ancient Chinese Han Dynasty Pottery Terracotta Hu Vase Vessel 206 BC" is in sale since Thursday, April 30, 2015. This item is in the category "Antiques\Antiquities\Far Eastern". The seller is "artancientltd" and is located in Huntingdon.

This item can be shipped worldwide.

1. Material: Pottery
2. Original/Reproduction: Original
3. Age: 206 B.
4. Region of Origin: China
5. Dynasty: Western Han
6. Vessel Type: Hu