ART 198 - HISTORY OF WORLD CERAMICS

Many Jomon vessels are tall, narrow, cylindrical forms with elaborated tops. This example, crudely repaired, is indicative. Note the zoomorphic coils added to the top, with the uppermost one culminating in a representation of a snake. Jomon vessels have been found throughout Japan, in grave mounds. The rolled cord markings constitute the main decoration on this form. With no written or oral record to inform us as to their meaning, these vessels remain enigmatic and powerful to the modern viewer.

JOMON VESSEL, JAPAN, Neolithic (approximately 3000 BCE)