Stoneware Jar. China Wanly Era.

Stoneware jar covered with a brown glaze, probably with ash. There are adhesions which I think are firing defects because they are very hard. The clay is beige in color. It would seem that the potter used the coiling technique to create this ambitious shape. Firing such a heavy jar with such a small base requires excellent skill. there must have been a lot of breakage or sag, which would explain why it's a rare shape. The work of the fire drew, randomly, pretty flows of oxide. Although it is a utility pot, the shape is very elegant. We know of another identical model, although smaller, which was sold in Melbourne by Christie's in March 2004 under the number 515 and which had been discovered in a Chinese junk from the end of the 16th century. Apparently, she was alone and had to serve the crew. Curiously the height is exactly equal to the width. 45x45cm. Very large. The one in Melbourne appears to have a mark imprinted in the clay. Good condition. No restaure. Wear and alterations due to time.