BLACK POTTERY / FLATTENED JAR, Painted Pottery, with wooden box, Han Dynasty（206BCE–220CE）

This piece is a flattened jar of black pottery from the Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE). The term "black pottery" refers to a technique that employs a reduction firing method, minimizing oxygen exposure to achieve a deep, lustrous black hue throughout the ceramic. In Japan, this type of pottery is also known as Anderson ware, a name derived from the classification by American archaeologist Anderson, who conducted research in northern China from the late 19th to early 20th century.

During the Han Dynasty, black pottery was crafted for ritual purposes and as grave goods for the nobility, with an emphasis on uniformity in shape and texture. This flattened jar features a robust yet gently rounded body, adorned with unique, fine iron particles that are a hallmark of the reduction firing process. As an archaeological find, it retains some traces of soil, yet it remains in excellent condition, preserving its nearly complete form with minimal wear on the base.

Holding this piece allows one to appreciate the weight of traditional firing techniques and to feel a connection to ancient rituals and daily life. It comes with a wooden box.