National Treasures & Important Cultural Properties
of National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, Japan

This cinerary urn was excavated from the remains of Dainichi Temple on the hill behind Kanshu-ji Temple in Yamashina Ward, Kyoto City, in 1937. It contained cremated remains. It has a round body; the opening has a short, raised lip. It is a rare example of a 9th-century green-glazed vessel (J., Ryokuyu) in perfect condition. The clay used is of fine quality, and the firing was at a low temperature. Probably made in or around Kyoto.