Phoenix-Head Ewer, 618-906
Unknown artist, Chinaexpand_more
Sancai ware Stoneware with molded decor under a three-color glazeexpand_more
Bequest of Alfred F. Pillsburyexpand_more 50.46.174
On View in Gallery 204expand_more
This classic Tang dynasty splashed glaze ewer was made specifically for burial. The unperforated beak could not function as a pouring spout and the vessel's main purpose was a fanciful tomb furnishing for the afterlife. Nothing exactly like this shape is known from the earlier Chinese ceramic tradition. A well-known group of Sassanian silver ewers recovered from tombs in south Russia reveal the inspiration for this basic ewer shape to be foreign. Likewise, the relief floral medallions and phoenix seen on the side of the ewer suggest the chased gold and silver decoration encountered on the type of Sassanian silver vessels that would have entered China along the Silk Road at this time. Accordingly, the vessel reflects the cosmopolitan, somewhat exotic taste of Tang high society.
Details
- Title
- Phoenix-Head Ewer
- Role
- Artist
- Dimension
- 13 1/4 in. (33.66 cm)
- Accession Number
- 50.46.174
- Curator Approved
This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
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