EAR CUP, Iridescent green-glazed, Han Dynasty（206BCE–220CE）

This is a green-glazed ear cup from the Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE). During this period, the first true celadon wares emerged in the history of Chinese ceramics, alongside the production of ash-glazed pottery, decorated gray pottery, black pottery, and lead-glazed ceramics. Transitioning from the bronze culture that flourished from the Shang and Zhou dynasties through the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods, the Han Dynasty witnessed a technological innovation in the firing of celadon, leading to the creation of diverse ceramics in both technique and form.

The double-handled design of this vessel serves to prevent direct contact with the rim, making it one of the ritual vessels used in formal settings. The green glaze of this ear cup exhibits a beautiful silvering effect, presenting a rich and captivating appearance. It is said that this natural silvering can take several centuries to develop.

After filling it with water for about an hour, there were no leaks observed. It is believed that you could also enjoy placing wild grasses within it.