This large and impressive stoneware jar was excavated from a tomb in north-west China and was made during the Xixia Dynasty (AD 1038 - 1227). It is "heavily-potted" and coated in a thick iron glaze. There are two sturdy handles joining the neck to the shoulder. To quote from the fine book by He Li, "Chinese Ceramics The New Standard Guide", "Little was known about Xixia ceramics before the first studies were initiated in the late 1980s. . . the outstanding feature. . .the wide unglazed band around the shoulder, distinguishes it from Cizhou ware, and indeed, this feature has been identified as peculiar to Xixia jars. Though influenced by northern Chinese ceramics, kilns of the Xixia dynasty produced wares suited to a nomadic lifestyle."

Xixia jars are extremely rare, indeed this is only the second example we have ever had, and what an impressive example with a height of 40 cm (15.75 inches) and a diameter of 37 cm (14.5 inches), weight 9.35 kg (20.5 lbs). Although on paper that may not seem very big, but when actually seen, the true size of this jar becomes apparent. Our last photo shows it beside a Ming jarlet to try to give an impression of its size. There is some wear to the glaze, particularly where the jar is at its widest part, showing this jar had much use prior to its interment, but no repair or restoration. A very rare jar in very good condition.

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