The form of the Japanese vessel (first photograph) is very old, having predecessors as early as the Chinese Neolithic (second photograph). Its unusual shape...See more »
The form of the Japanese vessel (first photograph) is very old, having predecessors as early as the Chinese Neolithic (second photograph). Its unusual shape seems to be an imitation of a tied-off water skin. Cords attached to the lugs would allow the pot to be let down into the water for filling and cooling.See less »