Neolithic Period, Majiayao Culture

Height: 14.1 cm, Mouth diameter: 28 cm

Unearthed in 1973 at Shangsunjiazhai, Datong County, Qinghai Province

This painted pottery basin is orange-red in color, with simple black lines decorating the rim and outer wall. The inner wall is adorned with three groups of dancing scenes, separated from one another by parallel vertical lines and leaf motifs. Each group depicts five dancers holding hands, all facing toward the right front, moving in unison. The dancers are painted in a single-color flat application, with forms that are concise and lively. The three groups of dancers encircle the basin to form a ring, while the parallel chord-like lines beneath their feet resemble rippling water. The small pottery basin thus appears like a tranquil pond, with joyful crowds gathered along the water's edge, singing and dancing.