Amphora with dragon-shaped handles
Not on view
Owing to their large oval bodies and narrow cylindrical necks, vessels of this type have traditionally been called "amphorae" and were said to be based on the ancient Greek jar with essentially the same contours. Recently, however, it has been suggested that the shape is derived from Roman glass and metalwork that came to China over the Silk Road. This Western shape has been modified here by the addition of two Chinese features, the high, arched dragon-headed handles and a cupped mouth.
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