Bronze with partial gilding. China, Han and Song Dynasty, 2nd to 10th century
An outstanding rarity is this very attractive hu vessel - the most widespread archaic vessel form similar to a vase – here in a rather edged variation known as fanghu. The tall foot has a quadratic base and four trapezoid walls. A similar, yet somewhat smaller design is repeated towards the mouth section. The body of the vase presents an elegant momentum which continues up along the entire neck. A taotie mask with some gilt areas is found on two of the vessel’s sides, their noses form eyelets suspending large rings. The other two walls each present a phoenix in raised relief, also suspending a ring, but from the body. The surface holds areas with a very pronounced patina which drastically adds to the overall effect of the vase along with the different-sized spots of gilding. On the not easily visible bottom of the inside is a quite large inscription with archaic characters (see photo). On the lower, strongly recessed bottom is a grid design in raised relief as well as green patina. In very good overall condition and complete, with noble age characteristics giving a powerful representative effect.
HEIGHT 40,5 CM
This fanghu was acquired by us at Spink & Son in London in 1994 before going to a larger collection. According to information from Spink at that time, this vessel originated in the Han Period and was reworked with a green lacquer patina and gilding during the Song, befitting for the veneration of antique objects at the time.
鑲金青銅造方壺。中國,漢與宋代。高40.5厘米。
Illustrated in our catalog ASIATIKA from November-December 1994 on page 40 (No. 43)