Song Dynasty Chinese Terracotta Storage Jar | Ancient Shipwreck Artifact | Circa 960–1279 CE
Description
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Historical Context & Origin
Region: China, recovered from Southeast Asian maritime waters (exact shipwreck unknown)
Material: Terracotta with marine encrustations and mineral deposits
Period: Song Dynasty (960–1279 CE)
Description
This large terracotta storage jar, dating back to the Song Dynasty, was recovered from Southeast Asian waters, likely part of a long-lost shipwreck cargo. Its utilitarian design reflects the daily life and trade practices of Song-era China, with a rounded, robust body intended for storing liquids or grains. The heavily encrusted surface, complete with marine calcification, attests to centuries of submersion, offering a vivid connection to the maritime trade networks linking China to the Philippines and beyond over a millennium ago. The jar’s wide mouth and slightly tapered neck indicate functionality, while the overall form emphasizes stability during transport on ancient ships.
Features
- Wide, rounded body suitable for storage of liquids or dry goods
- Narrow, slightly tapered neck for controlled access
- Extensive marine encrustations from centuries underwater
- Classic Song Dynasty utilitarian ceramic form
- Likely shipwreck provenance, illustrating Chinese maritime trade
Cultural Significance
During the Song Dynasty, Chinese ceramics were widely exported across Asia and were essential commodities in maritime trade. Jars like this were highly valued for their durability and practicality, forming part of the cargo that sustained cultural and economic connections between China and Southeast Asia. Artifacts such as this vessel highlight the technological skill of Song potters and the scope of early global commerce.
Condition
Preserved in excavated condition with heavy marine encrustation and surface deposits. The structure remains stable, with visible evidence of long-term underwater preservation, affirming authenticity as a maritime relic.
Dimensions (approximate)
Height: 6.5 in
Diameter (widest point): 8.5 in
Age
Song Dynasty, circa 960–1279 CE
Description
Historical Context & Origin
Region: China, recovered from Southeast Asian maritime waters (exact shipwreck unknown)
Material: Terracotta with marine encrustations and mineral deposits
Period: Song Dynasty (960–1279 CE)
Description
This large terracotta storage jar, dating back to the Song Dynasty, was recovered from Southeast Asian waters, likely part of a long-lost shipwreck cargo. Its utilitarian design reflects the daily life and trade practices of Song-era China, with a rounded, robust body intended for storing liquids or grains. The heavily encrusted surface, complete with marine calcification, attests to centuries of submersion, offering a vivid connection to the maritime trade networks linking China to the Philippines and beyond over a millennium ago. The jar’s wide mouth and slightly tapered neck indicate functionality, while the overall form emphasizes stability during transport on ancient ships.
Features
- Wide, rounded body suitable for storage of liquids or dry goods
- Narrow, slightly tapered neck for controlled access
- Extensive marine encrustations from centuries underwater
- Classic Song Dynasty utilitarian ceramic form
- Likely shipwreck provenance, illustrating Chinese maritime trade
Cultural Significance
During the Song Dynasty, Chinese ceramics were widely exported across Asia and were essential commodities in maritime trade. Jars like this were highly valued for their durability and practicality, forming part of the cargo that sustained cultural and economic connections between China and Southeast Asia. Artifacts such as this vessel highlight the technological skill of Song potters and the scope of early global commerce.
Condition
Preserved in excavated condition with heavy marine encrustation and surface deposits. The structure remains stable, with visible evidence of long-term underwater preservation, affirming authenticity as a maritime relic.
Dimensions (approximate)
Height: 6.5 in
Diameter (widest point): 8.5 in
Age
Song Dynasty, circa 960–1279 CE
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