Double-Vessel Pottery Jug with Zoomorphic Decoration

This Double-Vessel Pottery Jug belongs to the Kaunchi culture and dates from the 2nd century BCE to the 2nd century CE. It consists of two vessels of equal size, joined by a central bridge. At the top of the connection is a small, convenient handle in a zoomorphic style, decorated with the image of a ram’s head. In the beliefs of ancient peoples the ram symbolized strength, prosperity, and fertility. The lower parts of the vessels are wider, while the necks are slightly narrowed with outward-turned rims. Such double vessels were practical for storing two different products simultaneously, such as spices, oil, and sour cream, or water and milk. Similar finds testify to the rich tradition of pottery craftsmanship in the region.