This lovely cocoon vase comes with a story. I was in Amsterdam, and saw this vase on sale in a high-end antique shop. The seller told me it was in stock for a long time, and he couldn’t bear seeing it any longer. He bought it incredibly expensive at a large auction house, and had become a bad investment. I wanted it badly but didn’t have enough cash to buy it. He told me to put the remaining money in an envelope and send it to him later. I wanted to leave my name and address, because I had never seen the man before. He told me that was not necessary, in his long life as a dealer it had always worked out fine. Of course I sent the money a.s.a.p.

It was made in the Western Han dynasty, late 3rd-1st century bC. It is made from a grey earthenware, and measures 24,5 x 26 x 18,5 cm.

It is cold-painted, and in a lovely original condition, no repainting.

The shape is very bold and strong. The rim is also decorated, and sharply cut.

 

 

 

It stands on a foot of 3,5 cm high, which has a chip off.

 

 

 

 

The body shows the classic signs of aging, and some root markings.

 

 

 

 

 

These cocoon vases come in a variety of sizes, shapes and finishes.