Han Dynasty, Ca. 206 BC A highly decorative ceramic vase with a beige fabric and glossy, dark, brownish slip. The vase comprises of a flaring rim, elongated neck, and a round globular body supported by a cylindrical ring foot. Five bands of linear decoration run around the vessel, starting from the top of the shoulder and running down to the bottom of the base. The centre of the base, between the two largest linear lines, is an elaborately-detailed scene of stylised dragons in a running pose. Above this, three bands of decorated, zoomorphic patterns, including pyramid-shaped filling, connective dotted lines, and further inscribed motifs. Above the neck are prancing deers. Decorated with elaborate, two circular taotie masks with hooped handles. Size: L:230mm / W:170mm ; 890g Provenance: East Anglian private collection; formerly acquired in the early 1990s in Hong Kong.