Storage Jar, Han dynasty (206 B.C.E.–220 C.E.). Proto-Yue ware, stoneware with natural ash glaze, 33.7 x 39.1 cm; Diameter of mouth: 12.7 cm. Brooklyn Museum, Gift of Dr. and Mrs. George J. Fan, 1996.26.1. (Photo: Brooklyn Museum)

This massive jar is decorated with three bands of incised animal motifs that relate to decorative patterns on contemporaneous lacquer wares in China, while the wide strap handles on the shoulder evolve from early bronze vessel forms. The jar represents an important phase of ceramic development during the Han dynasty, when Yue ware, a high-fired glazed stoneware, was first produced. Yue (pronounced "yu-eh") is the area in Zhejiang province, in southeast China, where one of the three kingdoms of Wu-Yue (A.D. 222–280) was established. Yue kiln wares were first made exclusively for the Wu-Yue kingdom.