An ancient Chinese Western Han Dynasty pottery hu, dating to 206 BC – 9 AD.
With the calm elegance that typifies hu vessels, the bold silhouette and flowing curves communicate both power and grace in equal measure. The piriform body, adorned with intricate salmon-pink patterning, sits upon a ring base and rises into a long cylindrical neck with a refined, flaring mouth.
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, these were also known as hu. The design consists of images of swirling heavenly clouds, painted in vibrant pink, which stand out beautifully against the charcoal hue of the clay.
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.
Height: 10 ¾ inches.
Condition: Very good, restoration to base and rim. With root markings, encrustations and excellent pigment in the collection of Mr. M. 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).
Mr. 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. He sought only the finest examples of their type, buying at a time in the late 1980s when examples without widespread deceptive restorations could still be acquired. ArtAncient purchased the entire collection directly from his heirs and is now honoured to present these items to the market after nearly 35 years.
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