Neolithic black stemcup

Title

Year/Period

Longshan culture (2400-2000 BCE)

Region

Shandong province, China

Object Type

grave goods

Material

ceramic (material)

Technique

throwing (pottery technique), firing (technique), pottery techniques

Dimension

Object size: H17 x D7.5cm

Accession No.

1993-01536

Collection of

Asian Civilisations Museum

This stemcup from the Shandong Longshan culture represents one of the earliest earthenware to be thrown on a wheel, evident from its eggshell-thin body and wheel-turning marks. Its thin body, bulbous stem, and the sharp ridges around the stem and foot attest to the technical achievements of the Longshan potter. This exquisite vessel is decorated with vertical slits, which were made by a sharp implement while the clay was soft. Like other black pottery found in the graves of the Longshan culture, this stemcup probably served as a ritual vessel.