Large Western Han Dynasty (206 BC - 9 AD) hu form earthenware jar with a flaring mouth embellished with a wide raised collar. The chalky painted mineral pigment decoration on this type of jar was designed to imitate the inlaid decoration on Chinese bronze vases. According to the Metropolitan Museum, the swirling cloud-like designs covering the vessel are thought to represent celestial mists through which the deceased would travel to join the immortals. Dates circa 1st century B.C. Measures about 12 3/4" high x 10" diameter. Very good overall condition with significant pigment remaining. There is substantial dirt adhering. Might have originally had a cover. There is one small chip on the rim. See color illustration #1 in "A Handbook of Chinese Ceramics" by Suzanne G. Valenstein, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1989" for a similar example.