Yuan Dynasty Buddhist Pottery Zodiac Jar

Yuan Dynasty, c. 960–1368 AD, Yunnan Province, China

A rare and finely moulded Buddhist reliquary jar, complete with its original lid, dating to the Yuan Dynasty and excavated from a Buddhist site in Yunnan Province. Formed from a fairly high-fired pale grey pottery with traces of white pigment still visible on both jar and cover, the vessel has a piriform body rising elegantly from a short ring foot. Such jars were traditionally filled with ritual offerings—coins, shells, flowers, and grains—and placed within temples or stupas during Buddhist consecration ceremonies.

The main body is adorned with moulded appliqués of human figures interspersed with the twelve animals of the Chinese zodiac around the lower register. In Buddhist cosmology, these twelve creatures are said to have journeyed together to pay homage to the historical Buddha before his final nirvana, symbolizing the harmony between the natural and spiritual realms.

Additional decoration includes incised wavy lines encircling the shoulder and a convex lid deeply carved with an irregular star motif. On the underside, Sanskrit-style characters painted in red pigment remain clearly visible. The vessel’s warm yellowish-brown patina derives from the iron-rich soils of Yunnan, lending it a distinctive earthen glow and timeless serenity.

Excellent condition. Intact, there is no sign of restoration or repair. Small chip in the rim and surface wear consistent with age and use. Earthen deposits and multiple root marks present. Size approx. 23,3cm x 17,5cm x 17,0cm. 

Provenance: British private collection.