GREEN-GLAZED POTTERY MODEL OF A WELL HEAD
EASTERN HAN DYNASTY (AD 25-220)
53.8 cm high
The circular hollow base tapers towards the everted rim which is of square section surmounted with a tall A-form structure supporting two dragon heads below a small tiled roof. The dragon heads are rendered ferocious with revealed teeth and detailed features. The exterior is covered with a rich green glaze with areas of iridescence.
Ceramic models of daily life necessities were often buried with the deceased to function in the after-life. Modelled after real-life structures, the present well head gives us insight about life, aesthetics and architecture in China two thousand years ago. The extremely well defined dragons, which were believed to be the protectors of water, are looking down to detect any unwanted invaders. The size is remarkably large size for this type of model.
Oxford Thermoluminescence Certificate No. 766b63
Provenance:
A Dutch private collection