Chinese Storage Vessel / Planter

Dark glaze, pale rim, and a century of sitting heavy.

Pottery workers in China made this storage vessel or planter in the 19th century. Large glazed jars are commonly used for water, grain and fermented goods, and they suit planting as well. This one is wide-mouthed and tapers toward the base, with a glossy brown glaze that runs thick in the middle and thins to clay-colored streaks near the bottom. A raw, sandy lip circles the opening. The surface is lightly scarred from use.

About 22 inches high by 30 across. It anchors an entry without asking for attention.