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Whereas before, war was characterized as a
civilized contest between aristocratic armies,
during the Warring States Period (475-221
B.C.), war evolved into the chaotic conflict we
know it as today. Kings and princes were
replaced on the battlefield by infantries led by
military generals. Peasants were recruited to
serve on the front lines. Warfare intensified,
especially in terms of the duration of
campaigns. New arms and armor were
invented, including the halberd and crossbow.
Chariots rode alongside archers outfitted in
iron helmets and body armor. Defensive walls
were erected in order to repel invaders.
However, despite the turmoil of the times, the
arts continued to thrive. Bronze casting was
revolutionized by the introduction of the lost-
wax technique, while the alterations of kiln
structures enabled new firing techniques that
resulted in fully developed glazes.
Although the Warring States Period was
marked by almost constant upheaval, it also
represents a golden age of Chinese culture
and thought. Needless to say, the arts
continued to flourish as this exquisite
terracotta vessel reveals. Judging by its
archaic form, which has its origins in Neolithic
China, such a vessel may have been used to
store foodstuff. The smooth and even design
is a testament to the technological
advancement in pottery for which the period
is renowned. Moreover, beginning at the
vessel's widest cross-section and continuing
up towards the raised lip, subtle impressions
rendered in pairs of parallel lines adorn the
upper half of the vessel. Like its earthen
predecessors, however, the lower half of the
vessel has been left unadorned and unglazed.
And as such, the lower half may have also
been partially buried for stability in storage,
as typical of earlier cultures like the Yangshao.
Stemming from between the decorative
impressions, two handles protrude from
opposite sides depicting zoomorphic motifs,
perhaps a ram or taotie with ram-like horns so
common to the time - both auspicious
symbols in Warring States China.
- (SP.577)
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