East Asia, Japan, Middle to Late Jomon period, ca. 2500 to 1500 BCE. A large hand-built pottery vessel of a sprouting form with a flat base and flared rim. The cylindrical exterior walls are textured with incised striations and impressed designs, formed by pressing a cord into the wet clay before firing; the term "jomon" translates to "cord pattern." The broad rim is decorated with three upward points, one of which forms a circular strap handle. Notched and applied, pinched bands create abstract linear patterning across the rim. Size: 9.75" Diameter x 12" H (24.8 cm x 30.5 cm)
The ancient Japanese Jomon Period is known for its distinctive pottery tradition that set it apart from the Paleolithic Age. Jomon pottery vessels are among the oldest in the world and typically present rope- or cord-like impressed decoration. Since no kilns have been excavated from the Jomon period, it is believed that the ancients fired these vessels in open fires.
According to the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Heilbrunn Timeline essay, "All Jomon pots were made by hand, without the aid of a wheel, the potter building up the vessel from the bottom with coil upon coil of soft clay. As in all other Neolithic cultures, women produced these early potteries. The clay was mixed with a variety of adhesive materials, including mica, lead, fibers, and crushed shells. After the vessel was formed, tools were employed to smooth both the outer and interior surfaces. When completely dry, it was fired in an outdoor bonfire at a temperature of no more than about 900° C."
This piece has been tested using thermoluminescence (TL) analysis and has been found to be ancient and of the period stated. A full report will accompany purchase.
Provenance: private Chicago, Illinois, USA collection
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#166774
Condition
Professionally repaired and restored from many pieces with infill along break lines. Repairs are well done and not easily discernable. First TL hole on base and second TL hole on upper rim. Chips and nicks to rim and high pointed areas. Stable hairline fissures and abrasions. Softening to details.