A Glimpse into Ancient Sport
Long before football became a global obsession, the spirit of the game was already being captured in art on the Chinese mainland. A remarkable artifact currently housed in the Henan Museum offers a window into this past: a ceramic pillow depicting a child engaged in the game of cuju.
The Art of Cuju
Crafted during the Song Dynasty (960–1279), this pillow features an intricate scene of a child kicking a ball. Cuju, often cited as an ancient ancestor of modern football, reflects the long-standing tradition of ball games in the region. The use of ceramics to commemorate such everyday activities highlights the intersection of art and leisure during one of history's most culturally vibrant eras.
Innovation in Comfort
While the idea of a ceramic pillow might seem jarring to modern sensibilities, these items were highly prized during the Song Dynasty. As ceramic production reached new heights, these pillows became popular for their practical benefits. The hard, smooth surfaces provided essential neck support and, more importantly, offered a refreshing coolness—a vital luxury in the era before electric fans and air conditioning.
Today, this artifact serves as more than just a historical curiosity; it is a testament to the enduring human love for sport and the ingenuity of ancient craftsmanship.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
