Central Asia, Indus Valley, Harappan / Mohenjo-Daro civilization, ca. 2300 to 1900 BCE. An incredible, large example of a terracotta bowl painted with black outlined motifs of striding lions around its broad body. The bulbous vessel stands on a flat base and has an inwardly-curving mouth with an unpronounced rim. In classic Indus Valley style, behind the lions, the body of the jar is ringed by registers of abstract patterns and motifs. The motifs are painted on the buff beige surface of the vessel in red, sky-blue, and yellow. The copper sulfate used to create the blue color is in particular nice shape on this well-preserved example. Size: 15" L x 15" W x 11" H (38.1 cm x 38.1 cm x 27.9 cm)

The lion motif is one of many animal representations favored in art created by the ancient people of the Indus Valley. It seems likely that the animal motifs had religious significance, and the majesty of lions - here shown with flowing, scale-like manes painted a fanciful blue against the yellow of the animals' bodies - would have struck this ancient people as powerful and fierce.

This piece has been tested using thermoluminescence (TL) by CIRAM and has been found to be ancient and of the period stated. A full report will accompany purchase.

Provenance: East Coast collection, New York Gallery, New York City, New York, USA, acquired before 2010

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#182429

A few stable hairline fissures and tiny chips from rim but otherwise intact and in excellent condition with well-preserved motifs and nice deposits on the surface.