Unusual twin-handled pottery jar was made over 4,000 years ago during the Machang Phase (ca. 2300 - 2000 BC) of the Majiayao culture, also known as the Gansu-Yangshao culture, from present day Gansu or Qinghai province. It is relatively highly-fired and, therefore, more durable than lower-fired examples. The inside of the mouth and the upper body have been coated in a red wash on top of which have been painted unusual patterns in a dark fired-on mineral-based pigment. Interestingly, the red wash was not applied to the body under the handles. 6-1/4"T x 7-1/2"D, minor chipping and wear, as shown. Provenance