Mee Lee

Unknown

Well

private collection

This "Han Dynasty Beast-Shaped Tripod Lid Pot" was made during the Han Dynasty (202 BC - 220 AD) and is a representative work that combines animal forms with practical structure in Han pottery. During the Han Dynasty, pottery developed a rich variety of shapes and decorations, reflecting the maturity of craftsmanship and the diverse evolution of social aesthetics.

The vessel is made of gray pottery and features a unique design; its body is rounded and stands on three slender legs, providing stability and suitability for use. The decoration on the neck is fluid, while the abdomen is intricately carved, adding texture and visual layers. The most striking feature is the lid and mouth of the pot, sculpted into a beast head shape (or resembling a phoenix or beast), exuberantly showcasing the Han Dynasty's reverence for the natural world and its interest in anthropomorphic artistry. A ring of drip-like protrusions is attached to the lower edge of the neck, emphasizing the three-dimensional decorative effect and possibly relating to guardianship and auspicious meanings.

These types of tripod beast-shaped lid pots were generally used for storage, food serving, rituals, or as funerary goods, embodying both ceremonial and practical attributes. They serve as a brilliant reflection of the aesthetic and cultural spirit of Han pottery, both in terms of religious beliefs and symbols of social status.

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