Chinese Han Dynasty Lead-Glazed Cucumber-Green Hu Jar with Handles

A large Chinese lead-glazed Cucumber-Green jar, Hu, Han Dynasty…
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A large Chinese lead-glazed Cucumber-Green jar, Hu, Han Dynasty (202BC-220AD), of classic hu form with ring-line decoration to the shoulder and taotie mask ring handles to either side, covered in a 'Cucumber' green lead glaze, with drips and stilt marks to the mouth rim. Together with a Japanese wooden box. 40 cm high, 33 cm diameter

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  • Lead Glaze - Lead glaze, also known as lead glaze or leaded glaze, is a type of glaze that contains lead oxide as one of its primary components. It was commonly used in the decoration of Chinese and Western ceramics from ancient times until the mid-20th century.

    In Chinese ceramics, lead glazes were used as early as the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD). The use of lead glazes became more widespread during the Song Dynasty (960-1279 AD), when potters developed the technique of firing ceramics at a high temperature to create a translucent, glass-like surface. This type of glaze, known as "celadon," was often used to decorate delicate porcelain vessels.

    In the Western world, lead glazes were also commonly used to decorate ceramics. For example, during the Renaissance, lead glazes were often used to create brightly coloured majolica ware, which was popular in Italy and Spain. Lead glazes were also used in the production of English creamware and pearlware during the 18th and 19th centuries.

    While lead glazes were prized for their beauty and durability, they also posed a health risk to potters and consumers, as lead is a toxic substance. Today, the use of lead glazes in ceramics is highly regulated or banned in many countries, and modern ceramic artists have developed alternative glazing techniques that are safer and more environmentally friendly.

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