Tapered Rice Wine Jar

This late 19th-century ceramic jar from China's Zhejiang province is formed in a traditional shape meant for storing wine and spirits made from rice and grains. The vessel has a flared mouth, four strap handles, and a cream-colored glaze coating both the interior and exterior, leaving only the flat base unfinished. The jar's balanced, oblong form offers a wonderful sculptural presence, further accentuated by its monochrome glaze.