Deep Kasori-e style Neolithic Jomon Vessel
Culture
Japanese
Dateabout 2500–1500 BCE
Mediumhand-coiled earthenware
Dimensions55 x Diam. 44 cm (21 5/8 x Diam. 17 5/16 in.)
ClassificationsCeramics
Credit LineAlexander H. Bullock Fund
Object number2013.29
DescriptionA prehistoric earthenware vessel. Orange-grey, unglazed, widely flared at the top, with raised spiral decorations. Body surface decorated by wrapping string around the vessel to mark the clay before it has hardened (the defining characteristic of kasori-e).Label TextJomon earthenware vessels are the oldest artistic artifacts found in Japan. The term Jomon, meaning “cord-marked,” describes its distinctive surface decoration. Typical of the Middle Jomon period, pottery vessels like this tall, cylindrical one were produced for food preparation, storage, and ritual ceremonies, yet featured elaborately sculptural rims with graphic patterning. Jomon pots were hand-built by forming the vessel from the bottom upwards using coils of soft clay. The surfaces were patterned with twisted cord impressions to create bold, abstract relief decorations.
On View
Not on view
about 1200
