This jar covered in an amber glaze, served as burial ware or ‘mingqi'. A moulded frieze on the shoulder depicts a hunting scene with various mythical and wild animals. A taotie (monster mask) is also visible at the centre of the frieze. This form is derived from an ancient bronze vessel known as 'hu' (壶). Copies of ancient wares including vases were made during the reigns of Yongzheng (1723–1735) and Qianlong (1736-1795).The practice of burying objects with the deceased stems from the belief in life after death.
