Chinese Ceramic Storage Vessel

Tall, pale and weathered like an old plaster wall. Nothing about it is polished, and that is most of its appeal.

Potters in Shanxi Province, China, made this storage vessel in pottery in the early 19th century. Large clay jars such as this were commonly used for grain, water and other household provisions. The ovoid body narrows to a small foot below a short collared neck. The surface is grey and chalky, with faint combing, crusty patches and soft darker stains in places.

About 24 inches tall and 14 wide. A calm, sandy column for a bright room.