**First Time At Auction**

East Asia, Western China, Han Dynasty, ca. 206 BCE to 220 CE. A large pottery vase, the surface burnished to a fine grey hue and inlaid with bronze bosses. Panels of incised linear decorations adorn the neck, and raised, swirl-patterned circles are presented on the main body. The mouth opens in a distinct ovoid form, and wide strap handles flow down from its narrow rim and join the widest part of the body. This type of double-handled amphora was made in western Sichuan province in central China, and is known as "Lifan" after the particular area where vessels like it were found. Researchers believe the unique shape to be anthropomorphic, perhaps symbolizing the female human form, or zoomorphic - the bronze appliques like staring eyes. The style is fascinating, very different from others created during the Warring States to Han Dynasty period, and seems to be an artistic callback to the elegant forms of the Chinese Neolithic period. Size: 12.5" L x 9" W x 12" H (31.8 cm x 22.9 cm x 30.5 cm)

These vessels are found mainly within rock-cut tombs and cist burials, with a few examples known from the more classically Han chambered brick tombs. This suggests that these vessels were made by immigrants or members of non-dominant ethnic groups within Han-controlled China, probably people who lived a nomadic lifestyle centered on husbandry while their Chinese contemporaries led more sedentary, agricultural-based lifestyles.

For a similar example of this amphora type with bronze bosses please see the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts website and the Wang Collection, and similar pottery type at the British Museum's website, museum number: 1932,0216.1.

This piece has been tested using thermoluminescence (TL) analysis and has been found to be ancient and of the period stated. A full printed and bound report is available to the buyer upon request.PLEASE NOTE: Due to recent increases of shipments being seized by Australian & German customs (even for items with pre-UNESCO provenance), we will no longer ship most antiquities and ancient Chinese art to Australia & Germany. For categories of items that are acceptable to ship to Australia or Germany, please contact us directly or work with your local customs brokerage firm.

Provenance: ex-New York, New York, USA collection; ex-Dragon Treasure Antiques acquired before 2008

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#176124

Chips and surface abrasions. Tl hole in base and second Tl hole inside handle. Protective wax coating added to pottery surface. No discernable repairs or restoration. Green patina and mineral deposits on bronze inlays. Softening and rubbing to bronze bosses. Overall excellent condition.