Ca. 206 BC-220 AD. Han Dynasty. Beautiful ceramic vase with a beige fabric and glossy brown slip. The vase comprises a flaring rim, elongated neck and a round globular body supported by a cylindrical ring foot. Two bands of linear direction run around the vessel, one at the shoulder and other at the widest part of the body and two monstrous taotie masks with stylised features and prominent snouts sit on either side of the body, between the linear bands just described. The taotie are mythological creatures commonly appearing in ancient Chinese art, where they are commonly associated with the Four Evils of the World, possibly suggesting that this vase was used for ritual purposes. The Han Dynasty, which ruled between 202 BC–220 AD, brought great prosperity and stability to China, reigning over a golden age of classical Chinese civilisation during which China saw major advances including the widespread development of a monetary economy and the invention of paper, as well as much progress in the decorative arts. Excellent condition. Comes fully authenticated with a TL test from Ralf Kotalla laboratory, Germany.Size: L:450mm / W:350mm ; 6.5kg. Provenance: Property of an established London gallery; acquired from a private estate collection formed in the 1990s.