Chinese Shipwreck Funnel-Form Mercury Storage Vessel

Dusty gray, tall and softly weathered, with a freckled crown of rust-colored flecks.

This shipwreck funnel-form mercury storage vessel is from Cizao Kilns, Fujian Province, China. It is stoneware. Maritime trade grew dramatically during the Song and Yuan dynasties, from the 10th to the 14th centuries, when Quanzhou in Fujian Province was considered the largest port in the world. Tapering vessel in pale bluish gray with a short rim at the top. Orange speckles gather on the shoulder, and the lower body shows chalky smears, ridges and a few small dents. It is 4.5 inches wide, 4.5 deep and 9 high.

A quiet, powdery character, nicely understated.