Pale Clay Sung Dynasty Mercury Storage Vessel
79238673758792
- In stock, ready to ship
- Backordered, shipping soon
Pale Clay Sung Dynasty Mercury Storage Vessel
Shaped during the Song Dynasty, these pale clay storage vessels were originally created as utilitarian containers, most commonly associated with the storage and transportation of mercury. Their distinctive funnel form reflects the practical needs of the period, allowing for controlled pouring and careful handling of valuable materials used in medicine, metallurgy and early scientific practices. Remarkably, these vessels were recovered from shipwreck sites in the Java Sea, evidence of the thriving maritime trade network that connected China with Southeast Asia during the medieval period. Each piece therefore, represents not only ancient craftsmanship but also the dynamic movement of goods, ideas and innovation across oceans.
Every vessel is unique, bearing surface markings, sediment deposits and timeworn irregularities that resulted from centuries underwater. These variations are not flaws, but historical signatures - subtle traces of the vessel’s journey, burial and rediscovery. They create a powerful sense of authenticity and make each example individual.
The soft, pale clay and pared-back silhouette give the vessels a surprisingly contemporary presence, sitting comfortably within minimalist, wabi-sabi or curated modern interiors. Displayed singly as a sculptural object or grouped together, they introduce texture, history and a quiet sense of archaeological poetry to a space.
- Period: Sung Dynasty (960–1279 AD)
- Origin: China
- Material: Hand-thrown earthenware
- Colour: Pale stone, warm clay, soft natural mineral tones
- Finish: Naturally aged with light patina and surface wear
- Character: Subtle wheel-thrown rings, historical marks, and unique imperfections
- Condition: Authentic antique condition with age-related wear
- Use: Decorative only (not watertight)
Dimensions
Select from width options, 10cm-11cm or 12cm-13cm,
The vessel heights vary between 16cm and 19cm.
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Please note - our Marlow showroom does not contain our full inventory and therefore some items are not displayed in-store.
Delivery
We want every part of your Home Barn experience to feel as carefully considered as the furniture you choose. From the moment you place your order, we'll take care of every detail, selecting the most appropriate delivery service to ensure your purchase arrives safely, efficiently and ready to enjoy.
Parcel Delivery
Smaller items are dispatched with DPD, providing a fast and reliable nationwide service.
- Small Parcel – £6
- Medium Parcel – £12
- Large Parcel – £20
- Extra Large Parcel – £40
Most parcel orders are delivered within two working days of placing your order.
Specialist Furniture Delivery
Larger, heavier or more delicate pieces are delivered by our trusted specialist furniture couriers, who are experienced in transporting quality furniture with the care and attention it deserves.
- Large Furniture Item – £65
- Extra Large Furniture Item – £95
Most mainland UK furniture deliveries are completed within 7–14 days of placing your order.
Once your order has been received, we'll confirm everything by email before our delivery partner contacts you directly to arrange a convenient delivery date.
Our specialist furniture delivery service is carried out by a dedicated one-person furniture courier.
To help ensure a smooth delivery, we kindly ask that a capable adult is available to assist the driver with larger furniture items where required. Delivery is made to the ground-floor entrance of your property.
Many of our customers find this service quick, efficient and an excellent value option for larger furniture deliveries.
Premium Two-Person Delivery & Assembly
For complete peace of mind, we also offer a premium two-person delivery and assembly service on many of our larger furniture pieces.
Our experienced team will carefully deliver your furniture, position it in the room of your choice and professionally assemble it where applicable, leaving you free to simply enjoy your new purchase.
Two-Person Delivery & Assembly – £80 per item
(Available on selected products.)
Self-Assembly
Some furniture, including selected dining tables, is supplied flat-packed to ensure safe transportation. Where self-assembly is required, comprehensive instructions and all necessary fittings are included, making assembly straightforward.
Delivery Charges
Delivery charges are automatically calculated at checkout, allowing you to review the cost before confirming your order.
Scotland & Offshore Locations
We're delighted to deliver throughout most of mainland UK.
For deliveries to the Scottish Highlands, Scottish Islands, Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland and other offshore UK islands, please contact us before placing your order. We'll be pleased to provide a personalised delivery quotation based on your location and the items you've chosen.
Simply email info@homebarnshop.co.uk with your postcode and shopping basket.
International Customers
Although we do not currently offer international delivery directly, we're always happy to work with specialist international shipping companies arranged by our overseas customers.
If you require a recommendation, we'd be delighted to suggest trusted international furniture shipping partners.
Collecting Your Order
You're very welcome to collect eligible purchases from our Marlow, Buckinghamshire showroom during our normal opening hours.
As some items are stored at separate warehouse locations, we recommend contacting us before travelling so we can ensure your order is prepared and ready for collection.
Please note that large furniture and bulky items are available by delivery only.