Goose jar
Place of OriginHenan province, China
DynastyTang dynasty (618-907)
MaterialsLow-fired ceramic, mold-impressed and with three-color glaze in green, brown, and yellow
DimensionsH. 12 in x W. 8 1/4 in x L. 13 7/8 in, H. 30.5 cm x W. 21 cm x L. 35.3 cm
Credit LineThe Avery Brundage Collection
Object numberB60P1108
DepartmentChinese Art
ClassificationsCeramics
On View
Not on viewAlthough images of ducks painted on ceramics can be traced back to the neolithic period, the device of shaping the vessel itself like a waterfowl was inspired by imported metalwork during the Tang. According to the historical records, Tufan (Tibet) contributed golden goose-shaped wine ware to the emperor Taizong (r. 627-649). Shaanxi (WW 1986.6: 78) and Henan potters made three-color glazed goose jars. The best jars, however, with the elaborate feather details seen in this piece, were only produced by the workshop in Henan (WW 1976.10: pl. 1).
approx. 700-800
approx. 700-750
