Early Harappan Polychrome Terracotta Bowl with Ibex and Lion Motifs
Early Harappan Polychrome Terracotta Bowl with Ibex and Lion Motifs
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The Early Harappan Civilization, c. 3200–2600 BC, Sindh, Pakistan
This exceptional polychrome terracotta bowl, skillfully molded with deep, slightly incurved sides, stands on a short circular foot and opens into a wide mouth with a slightly everted lip. The exterior is adorned with vivid gray, blue, red, and yellow slip, featuring a striking composition of a lion and a grazing ibex, separated by geometric motifs including square shapes and angular lines arranged in perfect symmetry.
The Harappan civilization (3300–1900 BC), also known as the Indus Valley Civilization, was one of the most sophisticated Bronze Age cultures, extending across modern-day Pakistan, northwest India, and parts of Afghanistan. Known for its monumental baked brick architecture, extensive drainage systems, and advanced urban planning, this civilization flourished as a center of trade, craftsmanship, and artistic expression.
This bowl originates from the Early Harappan period (3200–2600 BC), a time marked by expanding settlements and emerging artistic traditions in regions like Sindh, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Gujarat. Distinct archaeological cultures, such as Amri-Nal, Kot Diji, Damb Sadat, and Sothi-Siswal, introduced their own unique pottery styles and iconography, shaping the rich visual language of the Indus Valley Civilization.
A rare and highly significant artifact, this bowl not only showcases the mastery of early Harappan ceramic artisans but also offers insight into the symbolic and cultural expressions of one of the world's earliest urban civilizations.
Good condition. Surface wear and abrasions commensurate with age, nicks, fractures and chip, with encrusted patina and rich earthen deposits throughout. Size approx. 8,6cm x 8,6cm x 6,7cm.
Provenance: British private collection
References and further reading:
The Harappan Civilisation: Its Sub-cultures, Roshen Dalal, The Pioneer, Thursday, 10 May 2018.
Indus Valley Civilization, Mark, Joshua J., World History Encyclopedia, Last modified October 07, 2020 (https://www.worldhistory.org/Indus_Valley_Civilization/).
The Indus Civilization: A Contemporary Perspective, Gregory L. Possehl, AltaMira Press, 2002.
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