A superbly conceived design; vessels of this general type have been found in tombs dating as far back as the Spring and Autumn Period (770-475 BC) and are thought by many archaeologists to be anthropomorphic, based on the female human form. Even an imperfect example would have set you back thousands just a few years ago, but since then many more have found their way out of China. 

This particular example was made some 2,000 years ago during the Han Dynasty (206 BC - AD 220), possibly earlier. This vessel has a finely burnished surface, that has a silvery sheen when viewed in bright light, making it a pleasure to touch and to hold as well as to look at! Around the neck are bands of finely combed parallel lines and at the top of each handle is a "dimple". The "swirls" on the body are well-defined. On much of the surface are lightly "etched" patterns made by ancient root/plant growth during its long burial; a very pleasing effect and good evidence of its age.

Height 16.75 cm.  A superior example with minor surface wear and repairs limited to just the inner edge to one side of the "pointed" rim (that most people would probably not even notice); fine condition.

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