A superbly conceived design; jars of this general type have been found in tombs dating as far back as the Spring and Autumn Period (770-475 BC) and are thought by many archaeologists to be anthropomorphic, based on the female human form. 

This particular example was made some 2,000 years ago during the Han Dynasty (206 BC - AD 220). It is quite heavily-potted and relatively highly-fired, the "swirls" are well-defined and there are bands of fine incised decoration to both sides of the neck. Each handle is decorated with an incised spiral pattern and within the recessed base is an incised swirling pattern. The colour of the surface varies slightly in places due to uneven conditions in the kiln during firing. It has a fine burnished surface making it a real pleasure to handle as well as to view.

Height 16.5 cm. There is a repaired crack to the foot of one handle but overall, a lovely example in fine condition.

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