Jar
Chinese
Description
Subject Matter:
This is a Cizhou (磁州) ware jar typical of the northern Cizhou kilns in Hebei, Henan, and Shandong of the Song dynasty (960-1279). Cizhou ware has been well known since the Song dynasty with production lasting through the Qing, but it reached its zenith during the Jin and Yuan dynasties, where the forms were especially robust and decoration finely executed. The ware is characterized by its high contrast dark brown to black and white wares, although over a dozen types of decoration can be used. These techniques include painting, sgraffito, incision, overglaze, and underglaze, along with the application of multi-colored glazes. The variety of sub-styles is a result from being produced at a variety of Northern kilns in Hebei, Henan, Shandong, and Shanxi. These everyday, if not somewhat plebian wares consisted primarily of large jars, vases, pillows, and bowls.
Physical Description:
This stoneware globular jar has a straight neck, articulated rim, and two opposing loop handles connecting the neck to the shoulder. Six groups of four vertical ribs are placed around the body. The upper two-thirds of the exterior is covered in a black glaze over a white slip.
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