Fire-gilt repousse. China, Qing
This elaborate archaistic you-vessel resembling a container utilized for liquid offerings in ancient times (particularly the Shang period) has a tapered foot and a cover flanged by small mythical animals, as well as an arched handle with two large-horned bull’s heads on each end adjoining the body. A taotie mask in raised relief on the shoulder and a relief showing animals in motion; flying, running, etc.… The patina on the vessel is due to strong oxidation, the vessel was likely stored near iron objects for a longer period.
HEIGHT (WITHOUT HANDLE) 21 CM
From the collection of a former Austrian diplomat, acquired in the 1990’s in Beijing