Funerary Storage Jar c. 2300

This is a Funerary Storage Jar, made by Majiayao, sometime long ago. Look at the way the dark pigment contrasts with the earthenware, creating bold geometric shapes. It is the kind of mark making that feels deeply intuitive, almost like a dance. Imagine the artist’s hand turning the jar as they painted. The dark pigments create a dense, textured surface, especially where they pool and thicken, look near the top. See how the repeated triangular motifs create a rhythm. The lines are strong, yet softened by the irregular surface of the clay. This gives the whole form a feeling of being grounded, imperfect but honest. The relationship between this piece and the work of someone like, say, Agnes Martin is interesting. Both use repetition and simple forms, but to very different ends. Martin’s grids aim for transcendence, while this jar feels like a celebration of the earth. It’s amazing how art can encompass so many different approaches, and still, somehow, all be in conversation.