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Pitcher with phoenix-shaped lid

  • China
Pitcher with phoenix-shaped lid
Early 7th century CE
White-grey porcellanous stoneware, green-yellow glaze
Cv/1
44,6 cm x 18,1 cm
Vessel
Provenance: Northern China
The jug has an elongated belly with an expanded rim and is tapered at the bottom, with a high flared foot, a raised base and flat support. The lid, in the shape of a crested bird, is removable. The handle is in the shape of a sinuous dragon standing on its hind legs. Four decorative bands cover the entire body of the jug, separated by double raised fillets. The first of the four bands has a pattern of broad petals oriented downwards, the second shows acanthus leaf scrolls. The central band, on the belly of the jug, includes six circular medallions framed by beads, each with a naked male figure against a background of stylized rocks. The lower band is decorated with six floral motifs, each corresponding to the medallion of the band above.