Vessel in the shape of a leather wrapper

This exceedingly rare, if not unique, piece not only represents a cross-medium artistic exchange, but also a cultural exchange between Chinese and northern nomadic peoples during the eleventh and twelfth centuries. The unusual shape and brownish color suggest that it was intended to mimic a leather wrapper or parcel that would have been a common accoutrement of nomadic culture. The two rectangular holes cut into the top surface may have originally held a ribbon handle. The white porcelain body and brown iron glaze identify it as coming from Ding County (Hebei), which was the most important center of white porcelain production during the eleventh century. Located close to the border between the Chinese Song state and the nomadic Khitan Liao kingdom, this kiln site served both Chinese and nomadic patrons. After 1127, when the semi-nomadic Jurchen peoples conquered the northern portion of Song China, this county entered the territory of the Jin dynasty. It is very likely that this vessel’s distinctive leather-like form was commissioned by a Khitan or Jurchen patron.