Jar (Hu)
Neolithic period (2600-2300 BCE)
Banshan phase, Majiayao culture
Painted ceramic
G…

Images(3)

Vessel (Hu)

ClassificationsFurnishings-Serviceware-vessels

Date2600-2300 BCE

Made AtNingxia Hui Autonomous Region, China, Asia

Made AtQinghai Province, China, Asia

Made AtGansu Province, China, Asia

MediumPainted ceramic

Dimensions19 × 18 in. (48.3 × 45.7 cm)

Credit LineGift of Linda Shih

Object number99.54.1

DescriptionServing as a funerary vessel during the Neolithic period, this jar's ornamentation is strikingly dramatic. It was made by the Majiayao people, a branch of the central Yangshao culture, existing in modern-day Gansu, Ningxia, and Qinghai provinces. They produced four distinct types of ceramics in different eras and areas. This jar was made during the Banshan phase which inherited earlier black and red motifs but added more complex and elegant designs and a high level of decorative technique.

Common patterns from the Majiayao subculture include smooth lines and circular or ovate patterns. The crosshatch design, which produces a net-like appearance, is also common among vessels specifically from the Majiayao culture. Interestingly, there is also an anthropomorphic figure on the upper body of the jar. It has exaggerated ear-like forms stemming from a potential head with two possible arms bent at the enbows. This anthropomorphic perspective, however, is only one possible interpretation of the figure. Regardless of the interpretation, the distinctive figures are bordered by the characteristic ovate and linear patterns on the neck and center of the vessel, respectively.

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