Central Asia, Indus Valley, Harappan/Mohenjo-Daro civilization, ca. 2700 to 2000 BCE. A stunning example of some of the earliest decorated pottery in central Asia. A round-bodied vessel with three equidistant pinches at the rim, the bulbous form upon a round, flat foot. The surface is elegantly adorned with a black on buff decorative/iconographic program featuring three highly stylized zebu bulls, a species impressive for their wide, curving horns with trees and other characters in the field, the central register framed by narrower bands of diagonal linear patterns. The humped zebu bull was a recurring theme on the decorative and ritual arts from this civilization, probably symbolizing the leader of the herd, known for strength and virility. Size: 3.875" in diameter x 3.375" H (9.8 cm x 8.6 cm)

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

Provenance: private Orange County, California, USA collection, acquired before 2000

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#121922

Chips to rim and base. Minor surface wear commensurate with age.