This superbly-shaped jar was made some 2,000 years ago during the Early Western Han Dynasty (206 BC - AD 8) or possibly the earlier Qin Dynasty (221 - 206 BC). The shape, named after its similarity to the silkworm cocoon, evolved during the late Warring States period (475 - 221 BC) and then generally died out by the middle of the Western Han. It is constructed of a fine-grained dark grey earthenware with a finely burnished surface, wonderfully smooth to the touch. The body is decorated with twelve sets of triple-incised lines encircling the body vertically. The neck and base are also decorated with banded lines. The different surface shades are as a result of varying temperatures in the kiln during firing.

We have had this vessel tested by Oxford Authentications, the only testers of ancient pottery accepted by all major dealers, auction rooms and museums worldwide, with a result of a date of manufacture of "between 1500 and 2400 years ago". We show below the Thermoluminescence Analysis Report test certificate that will accompany this jar.

This is a large vessel with a height of 30 cm (12 inches) and length of 34 cm (13.5 inches). There is a very small repair to the edge of the rim and possibly also to the very edge of the base, otherwise fine condition and one of the best examples we have seen, with a timeless appeal to anyone who appreciates fine pottery and design whether ancient or modern!

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