Han Dynasty Black Pottery Bird-Shaped Covered Box (2nd Century BCE–2nd Century CE)

拍品描述

Dimensions: Length 14 cm (5.5 inches/0.05 feet), Height 7 cm (2.8 inches/0.02 feet). Condition and Provenance: The lid and body are intact and well-preserved, with no obvious damage. The surface retains the original dark gray-black clay texture, as well as natural soil layers and burial traces formed underground over hundreds of years. The interior also retains some of the original burial soil, giving it an authentic archaeological appearance. Provenance: Private collection, New York, USA; formerly acquired and preserved by an American collector of Chinese antiques. Description: This black ceramic bird-shaped covered box was a funerary object, realistically and lifelike in its form. The body consists of a bird-shaped lid and a hollow body, combining practical function with sculptural beauty. The body is shaped like the rounded torso of a bird, with internal space for storage, and small feet at the bottom for stability. The lid is sculpted into a complete perched bird, with a protruding head, sharp beak, simply carved eyes, and wings spread out to the sides. The wings are decorated with shallowly engraved feather patterns, the back has raised knots, and the tail extends outwards in a stylized manner. The lid and body together form the image of a complete perched bird, cleverly blending vessel design with animal sculpture. The body is made of dense black clay with a grayish-black surface. Due to long-term burial underground, the vessel retains natural soil deposits and burial residue. The production process combines molding techniques with hand finishing, using simple engraved lines to depict the bird's facial features and feather texture. The artist did not focus on excessive detail, but rather concentrated on capturing the essential characteristics and vivid outline of the bird. Bird-shaped pottery was often used as funerary objects, symbolizing peace, protection, and good wishes for the afterlife. This animal-shaped pottery reflects the creativity of ancient artisans, transforming everyday containers into expressive sculptural works of art.

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