Chinese Painted Terracotta Jar in the Majiayao Manner

A finely executed terracotta jar inspired by Neolithic painted pottery of the Majiayao culture, particularly the Banshan phase (circa 2500–2000 BCE).

Of globular form with a short cylindrical collar neck and twin loop handles set at the shoulder, the vessel is decorated in black slip over a warm buff earthenware ground. The upper body is divided into cross-hatched cartouches framed by bold curvilinear motifs, with a lattice band encircling the neck and a dark painted shoulder division above a plain lower register.

The proportions closely follow excavated Banshan examples, with careful attention to decorative zoning and symmetry. The surface displays gentle wear consistent with age. Small nicks to the rim.   

20th century

22cm x 24cm