Gourd-shaped flask with paired belt-shaped handles and patterns decoration in underglaze blue, Ming dynasty, Yongle reign (1403-1424)

Gourd-shaped flask with paired belt-shaped handles and patterns decoration in underglaze blue, Ming dynasty, Yongle reign (1403-1424)

• Image Number: K1B006066N000000000PAB
• Dynasty: Ming dynasty
• Category: Ceramics
• Function: Container
• Material: Mineral/ceramic/porcelain
• Description:
  The ribbon eared flat pot was produced in Yongle and Xuande periods of the Ming Dynasty. The flat pot is in the shape of a gourd. The upper half of the pot has a straight mouth and oblique wall. The middle neck is tied up. The lower half of the pot has a flat and round abdomen. There is an obvious contact mark in the center of the pot belly. The bottom of the pot has oval shallow ring feet. The left and right sides of the upper part of the pot are connected to the shoulders and neck with ribbon shaped ears. On the body, green materials are used to paint flower patterns and geometric flower patterns. This kind of artifacts is mainly used when traveling. The shape of the artifacts can be seen from the influence of metal and pottery of the Mamluk Dynasty (1250-1517). The mouth at the top is gradually closed, which can prevent the water and other liquids contained in it from spilling out during the journey. The double lugs on both sides can be used to bind ropes, which can then be hung on people, horses and camels to facilitate movement.