Chinese Neolithic Period Pottery Vessel

Late Yangshao to Early Majiayao Culture, c. 4000 - 2000 BC, China

An exquisite and rare hand-built Neolithic pottery jar, featuring a compressed body and flaring neck, adorned with bold geometric designs in dark brown and red pigments. The concentric bands and abstract motifs, possibly inspired by insect-like forms, add a striking visual appeal. The vessel’s intended use remains a mystery—it may have played a role in beer brewing, ritual ceremonies, or even burial practices.

The Neolithic period in China (c. 8000–1700 BC) marked the dawn of settled human civilization, giving rise to distinct regional cultures along China’s vast river systems. The Yangshao culture (c. 5000–3000 BC), often referred to as the cradle of Chinese civilization, thrived along the Yellow River basin. The Majiayao culture (c. 3100–2000 BC) flourished in Gansu, Qinghai, and Sichuan, producing some of the most sophisticated painted pottery of the era.

A remarkable relic of early human artistry, this vessel is a testament to the ingenuity and refinement of China’s ancient potters—a must-have for collectors of early ceramics and world history connoisseurs.

Excellent condition. Intact. No cracks, fractures or chips. Wear commensurate with age and use. Fading to areas of pigmentation. Rich earthen deposits. Size approx. 15,5cm x 13,5cm x 13,5cm. 

Provenance: Danish private collection.

References and further reading:

Form Follows Function: The Story of Chinese Neolithic Pottery, Edie Hu, Sothebys, May 18, 2022. (www.sothebys.com/en/articles/form-follows-function-the-story-of-chinese-neolithic-pottery)

The Pottery Age: An Appreciation of Neolithic Ceramics from China Circa 7000 BC - Circa 1000 BC, Ronald W. Longsdorf, CA Book Publishing, Hong Kong, 2020.

Department of Asian Art. Neolithic Period in China, In Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History. New York: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, 2000 -. Oct. 2004 (http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/cneo/hd_cneo.htm)

The British Museum Book of Chinese Art, Rawson, Jessica, et al., London: British Museum Press, 1992.

"Chinese pottery", Encyclopedia Britannica, Jerome Silbergeld,  George Savage,  and Michael Sullivan, 6 Feb. 2014. (https://www.britannica.com/art/Chinese-pottery)