However, even as Chinese influence spread across Southeastern Asia into new lands, the Eastern Han Dynasty was unable to recreate the glories of the Western Period. In fact, this period can be characterized by a bitter power struggle amongst a group of five consortial clans. These families sought to control the young, weak emperors with their court influence. Yet, as the emperors became distrustful of the rising power of the clans, they relied upon their eunuchs to defend them, often eliminating entire families at a time. During the Western Han, the Emperor was viewed as the center of the universe. However, this philosophy slowly disintegrated under the weak, vulnerable rulers of the Eastern Han, leading many scholars and officials to abandon the court. Eventually, the power of the Han would completely erode, ending with its dissolution and the beginning of the period known as the “Three Kingdoms.”

Green and brown glaze vessels of the Han Dynasty are generally based on bronze predecessors but feature distinctive variations that are quite pleasing. This green-glazed hu is notable for its elegant simplicity. Three parallel bands rendered in low relief decorate the surface of the exterior at the join of the neck and the shoulder and at the widest swelling of the body. These bands serve to divide the vessels into segments that create a nice visual flow to the piece. At the swelling of the body, two purely decorative Tao Tieh mask handles intersect the bands. These stylized animals represent a type of dragon found in Chinese mythology.