Harappan Terracotta Vase or Jar with Geometric Motifs
Harappan Terracotta Vase or Jar with Geometric Motifs
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Harappan Civilization, c. 2600–2450 BC, Sindh, Pakistan
A captivating small wheel-thrown bichrome terracotta vessel from the Indus Valley, exhibiting the sophisticated ceramic traditions of the Harappan civilization. The form features a petite, splayed foot supporting an inverted, bell-shaped body with a cinched, corseted neck that expands into a flared rim—an elegant silhouette that reflects balance and proportion.
The surface is decorated with simple yet striking geometric motifs, painted in black over a reddish-orange ground. These linear and curvilinear patterns, likely applied with a fine brush, demonstrate the aesthetic refinement and symbolic sensibilities of Harappan artisans.
Vessels such as this were used both in daily life and ritual contexts, and their decoration may have carried symbolic or communicative significance, though the precise meanings remain elusive. This example offers a beautifully preserved glimpse into the material culture of one of the world’s earliest urban civilizations.
Good condition. Intact. Surface wear commensurate with age, minor chip in the rim and scratches to the body, painted decoration faded, with encrusted patina and rich earthen deposits throughout. Size approx. 6,8cm x 4,8cm x 4,8cm.
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.
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