Late Qing dynasty, 18th century, mottled bronze vessel in shape of the archaistic hu form, rounded body and slightly flared neck rising from a recessed foot, the body is simply decorated with one raised band of decoration, a pair of loose ring handles are suspended from taotie masks on either side of the vessel.

14 in.

The term hu is one used for any number of ritual wine vessels, this one in particular with its round body form began use in the Western Han Dynasty (206 BC to 9 CE). This example dates from the Qing dynasty (1644-1912), over one thousand years later, and demonstrates the continuation of shape and form in Chinese art as well as the literati class' interest in archaic arts.

Scratches and wear; roughness to bronze in area right under the rim and push in same area.

$500 - 1,000