Pouring vessel with openwork panels from the Hoi An shipwreck

During the excavation of the Hội An shipwreck a number of cobalt ewers with unglazed openwork panels were found. This form of long-spouted vessel was not widely known in Vietnam before this discovery. The ewers were probably meant for pouring wine and were based upon Chinese models (see photo) that were themselves inspired by Islamic prototypes made in metal. On this vessel, a parrot is depicted amid branches on the pierced medallion. Traces of red pigment remain on the border surrounding the medallion.