Verdigris Bronze Zhou Dynasty Style Wine Vessel (Hu 壶)

This bronze ritual vessel is inspired a Western Zhou Dynasty wine jar currently in the Qishan County Museum. More specifically the original wine jar dates to the reigns of Yi and Li (885 - 841 BC). These vessels are called Hu 壶 in China.

Its substantial form has a broad, faceted body rising to a tall neck, richly decorated with archaic-style motifs and inscriptions. The handles are zoomorphic in the shape of horse heads.

Particularly distinctive are the stylised horse head handles, each fitted with a large loose ring. A removable upper section sits within the neck, while the aged verdigris finish gives the bronze the appearance of an excavated ancient vessel. A striking decorative piece that works equally well as a sculptural object or statement vase.

• Origin: China
• Date: Modern reproduction of a Western Zhou Dynasty (during the reigns of Yi and Li (885 - 841 BC)) wine jar currently in Qishan County Museum
• Materials: Bronze
• Features: Archaic-style decoration and inscriptions; stylised horse head handles with loose rings; removable upper section; aged verdigris finish
• Condition: Modern production with intentionally aged and patinated finish
• Dimensions: W34 x D34 x H58 cm
• Weight: 8.8kg
• References: Another similar example can be found in the Cernuschi Museum, Museum of Asian Arts of the City of Paris. A similar original example sold at Christies auction for $902,500