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China

Square-Sectioned Jars (Fanghu)

Western Han dynasty, 206 BCE–9 CE
Earthenware
20.5 × 20.5 cm (8.1 × 8.1 in)

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In the collection of Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago · as of July 2026

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FROM THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO’S CATALOG

The squared shape and vibrantly painted decoration of this jar imitates those of bronze and lacquer vessels. Its images of monster-mask ring handles duplicate, in larger scale, functional fittings in bronze. When excavated from Han tombs, some clay jars of this type were found to contain grain offerings provided for the deceased as part of the funerary rites.

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