Cylindrical Jar, 202, Cleveland Museum of Art: Chinese ArtVessels like this often are call “hi
Cylindrical Jar, 202, Cleveland Museum of Art: Chinese ArtVessels like this often are call “hill jars” since many survive with conical covers shaped in rising peaks. “Squatting bear” feet and false animal-mask ring handles are common to the group. This cylinder has been molded in two relief bands depicting hills and three populated with a medley of real and imaginary creatures. Wispy human-like figures are associated with a popular cult of Taoism prevalent in China during the Han Dynasty. The scene may represent a paradise of immortality idealized by that cult and appropriate to this vessel’s offering as a burial gift. When excavated from Han tombs, similar jars have been found to hold animal bones or powder; they may have served as food or cosmetic containers. Regardless of symbolism or function, this piece provides evidence for the appearance of early landscape lost in more fragile media.Size: Diameter: 27.3 cm (10 ¾ in.); height: 26.7 cm (10 ½ in.)Medium: lead glazed earthenware with molded reliefhttps://clevelandart.org/art/1948.214 -- source link
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