China - Ovoid Vase With Lotus Petals - Late Six Dynasties / Early Sui Dynasty

Covered vase with two tiers of lotus petals (Hunping) China—Late Six Dynasties, Early Sui Dynasty (581–618) Ovoid vase with aslender form and high shoulder, tapering gradually toward a base highlighted by a small recessed foot. The neck is short and straight, featuring a clean circular opening for the lid to fit snugly. The lid has a slightly convex, disc-shaped structure. The inner surface retains the circular marks left by smoothing or turning. The top is crowned with a conical handle depicting a closed lotus bud.

Scattered earthen concretions and archaeological sediments firmly adhered to the surface, primarily lodged in the recesses of the double row of molded petals. Significant traces of a white slip coating and cold-applied post-firing ochre/orange earthen pigments remain on the sides of the jar and the lid. Ideal morphological consistency and continuity of patina between the body and the lid.
Justification for the transition from the Six Dynasties to the Sui Dynasty The silhouette of this pot features a high shoulder and a well-controlled tapering toward the base, with a short, clean neck. Pieces from the Six Dynasties (such as hunping jars or early globular pots) often have stockier, more bulbous shapes or, conversely, very flared necks. The tension in the lines here directly foreshadows the perfection of Tang forms.
Origin: China
Period: Late Six Dynasties / Early Sui Dynasty (618–907 AD)
Dimensions: Height: 24 cm - Diameter: 16 cm.
Condition: Very good condition.
Provenance: Private Belgian collection.