● On view now — Gallery 134
Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago · verified July 2026
FROM THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO’S CATALOG
After the eleventh century, the use of clay molds became increasingly common in the ceramic production of northern China. Finely carved molds impressed intricate decorations on vessels’ surfaces before firing with both precision and speed, in order to meet the growing demands for ceramic wares at the time. While molds have been excavated at various kiln sites in Shaanxi and Henan provinces, those from Yaozhou, such as this one, are believed to have produced some of the most exquisite molded designs on ceramic wares during that period.
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Korea — Oil bottle with Scrollwork
Ancient Roman — Lamp
China, probably Guangdong or Guangxi province — Mountain-Sha
Ancient Roman — Lamp
Islamic — Water Filter with Floral Design
Tlatilco — Cylindrical Seal with Flower-like Motif
Mississippian — Chunkey Stone
Ancient Roman — Lamp
Ancient Egyptian — Alabastron (Container for Scented Oil)
Aztec (Mexica) — Ear Ornament or Spindle Whorl with Modeled
Ancient Egyptian — Vessel
Italian or Flemish — Lames (eight) of a Left Gauntlet