Stamped Clay Jar

Artisans in the Shanxi region of China handcrafted this unique jar over a century ago. It is stamped with an irregular floral pattern. The matte black clay is characteristic of processes perfected by many generations of ceramicists working at Chinese kilns—and sought after by connoisseurs. Many attempted this process, but were unable to imitate their finely-tuned firing techniques and the elegantly simple forms that were created.