Harappan Terracotta Elongated Cup with Geometric Decoration

Harappan Civilization, c. 2600–2450 BC, Sindh, Pakistan

An exceptional and large terracotta cup from the Indus Valley Civilization, featuring a flat base and an elegantly elongated body that rises to a broad, slightly flaring rim. The vessel’s surface is adorned with finely painted geometric motifs in black slip, applied over a slip-painted reddish-orange ground. These linear and triangular patterns—likely executed with a fine brush—exemplify the aesthetic sophistication and symbolic awareness of Harappan artisans.

Such vessels were utilized in both daily and ritual contexts, and their decorative schemes may have held symbolic or communicative significance, though their precise meanings remain the subject of scholarly debate. This beautifully preserved example offers a rare and evocative insight into the material culture of one of the world’s earliest and most advanced urban civilizations.

Excellent condition. Intact. Surface wear commensurate with age, minor abrasion in the rim and scratches to the body, painted decoration faded, with encrusted patina and rich earthen deposits throughout. Size approx. 16,5cm x 13,6cm x 13,8cm. 

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/).

Proto-Historic Pottery of Indus Valley Civilization; Study of Painted Motifs, Sudha Satyawadi, D.K. Printworld, 1994.

The Indus Civilization: A Contemporary Perspective, Gregory L. Possehl, AltaMira Press, 2002.