A fine Neolithic Chinese terracotta jar, dated to the Ma-Chang phase of the Majiayao culture. The vessel’s globular body slightly tapers inwards towards the flattened base. The upper part of the body forms a semi-globular shape, with two looped handles attached at the middle of the body, though one of the loops has been broken. The jar has a short, cylindrical neck that flares into a wide opening with an everted lip. The abstract, varied frog-pattern, featuring the iconic zig-zag shaped body and segmented claws, is painted in black pigment, enriching the upper part of the body. The inside of the mouth contains a linear motif. Above each handle is an irregular circle filled with cross-hatch lines. The vessel sits upon a flat circular base. Some stable surface cracks. Chips and cracks to the base of the jar. Earthly encrustations and signs of wear as consistent with age, such as chipping, scratches, flaking, and some loss of pigment. Signs of repair to the neck. N.B. Heavy shipping applies. The Majiayao phase was one of the most significant, pre-historic cultures that flourished during Neolithic China. Vast amounts of pottery material culture have been discovered, mostly from mortuary contexts, with distinct shapes and patterns. They are distinctively known for their iconic bulbous body shape, highly unified geometric patterns composed of spirals and swooping lines painted in contrasting dark red and black pigments. The manufacturing process of Majiayao painted pottery involved a unique technique, where long rods of clay were rolled out and then coiled round on top of one another in order to give the vessel the desired profile. Often the pots were made in two halves, with the top and bottom combined to form the large body. After the clay rods had been coiled, both the interior and the exterior walls of pottery were then smoothed and flattened, beaten by a paddle and anvil, thus creating an ideal silhouette. Neolithic Chinese pottery often features frog or toad motifs. These patterns were not merely decorative but also held symbolic meaning, likely associated with fertility, good fortune, and perhaps even lunar mythology. The frog’s association with offspring and the moon, coupled with its active form, contributed to its positive connotations in ancient Chinese symbolism. Measurements: (circa) H 31cm x W 21cm Provenance: From the collection of a West Country gentleman, formed in 1970s. N.B. Delivery may be longer due to the busier period and we do not guarantee delivery before Christmas. Items paid for after the 19th December will be shipped after the New Year (week commencing on the 5th January 2026). **There will be an additional fee incurred for returned shipments due to buyer’s non-response to customs enquiries and/or unsuccessful delivery attempts.**