Polychrome Cocoon Vase With Symbolic Decoration, Han Dynasty, China

Cocoon-shaped vase resting on a circular foot, topped with a flared neck with flat lips. Each main face is decorated with a symmetrical decoration composed of two large, superimposed stylized birds, with long, curved beaks and prominent crests, facing outwards. On the sides, two stylized masks, inspired by anthropology and animals, framed by engraved volutes, occupy the lateral faces. The entire decoration is structured by registers of parallel, sinuous, broken or spiral lines, carefully organized around the central figures. Brown terracotta with significant remains of polychromy: red, ochre, brown, black, with bluish nuances. Slight wear of the decoration, marks of time, good general condition of conservation. See photos. China, Han dynasty, 206 BC – 220 AD. BC 25 × 25 × 17.5 cm Provenance: Former collection of a geographer, southern France, formed in the 1970s-1980s. Sold with certificate of authenticity Guaranteed origin and period. "This cocoon-shaped vase is part of the tradition of prestige ceramics produced under the Han. The two pairs of stylized crested birds could be associated with codified representations of the fenghuang, the Chinese phoenix. A major figure in imperial mythology, it embodies cosmic harmony, peace, and celestial benevolence. The presence of this motif reinforces the symbolic value of the object. The masked figures, possibly inspired by taotie, recall ancient protective powers, often linked to notions of fertility or vigor. As for the spiral lines and engraved registers, they are similar to yunleiwen motifs (clouds and thunder), associated with the vital breath (qi) and natural forces. The overall harmony, the decorative richness, and the state of preservation of the polychromy make this example a rare example of Han ceramic art." *Careful packaging.* Shipping costs on request.* Shipped by DHL