Antique Han Dynasty Wine Pot

This is fine example of a rare Han wine pot.

The bottle is made from the typical grey pottery, as much seen in the Han dynasty ( 206 B.C.-220 A.D) It is 6 3/4 inches in height, and approximately 5 inches across. The center portion is covered in a white slip, and there are good remains of the original decoration. This bottle was never intended for use, but a burial piece. The bottom fired a bit black in the kiln. The colors of the decoration are the Han dynasty colors; dark brown, orange, and purple. The surface shows wear according to a long burial, and dark spots from fungous. These are often imitated using black paint, splashed over a replica. There is a difference when carefully examined. Wine bottles are relatively rare in Han pottery. There are small chips around the opening of the bottle, but otherwise it is in good condition. It has been held in a private collection for many years.