Chinese Wine Storage Vessel

Black glaze, ribbed texture, and a hint of reddish streaking.

This wine storage vessel was made of pottery in Shandong Province, China, in the late 19th or early 20th century. Such jars are commonly used for wine, grain and other household supplies. The rounded body has a glossy black-brown glaze, with fine ribbing running down its length. Faint reddish streaks show through at the shoulder, and a small narrow mouth completes the shape. The glaze has a light, worn look. Lower on the body the ribbing is clearer, and the dark glaze is thinner, giving a slightly dry, matte finish near the base.

About 23 inches tall. Compact, dark and surprisingly commanding.