Ewer

Object NameEwer

DateEarly 8th century

OriginChina

MediumEarthenware

Dimensions6 5/16 x 3 15/16 x 3 1/8 in. (16 x 10 x 7.9 cm)

ClassificationsDecorative Arts, Ceramics

Credit LineGift of Ann and Henry Brunnier. In the Ann and Henry Brunnier Collection, Brunnier Art Museum, University Museums, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa.

Object number2.2.9

Status

Not on view

Collections

Decorative Arts

CultureChinese

Label TextChina benefited greatly from active trans-Asiatic trade and improved internal communication systems during the Tang Dynasty. Artists were highly influenced by these governmental advances that facilitated a more eficient exchange of ideas and goods. Potters especially responded to the changes, using them to their advantage to create innovative wares in keeping with popular trends. The shapes of pottery, taken from forms ard designs of other cultures, reflected foreign influences. Chinese styles were combined with wetern elements, including shapes and decorative motifs from Persia, India, Greece and Syria. Persian influences appears frequently in Tang wares, particularly in form. This ewer echoes in Hellenistic (c. 300-100 B.C.) amphora shape with Chinese modifications. It is taller, more rounded in the shoulder and tapers more sharply at the base than its Persian counterpart. The handle molded in the shape of an exotic bird is a motif taken directly from Persian imagery. Distinctly Tang are the splashed green and brown lead glazes, popular due to their easy application and beautigul rich colors. On this ewer, splashing was combined with the wax-resist technique, a process of applying wax to the object before glazing. During firing, the underlyng wax prohibited glaze adhesion creating unusual white patters.

PeriodTang Dynasty

Locations