Vase hu, Han dynasty (-206 - 220), h 46.5 cm × d 38.5 cm. Courtesy Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam.

The green glaze was a new invention during the Han period. It imitated the patina of bronze and was used only for grave goods. The colour of the glaze, which has a characteristic pearly gloss, can range from various shades of green to brownish-yellow.