Shang Ritual Wine Vessel (Yayi jia)

Most vessels of this type were used to serve mulled wine during Shang rituals. For this reason, the bronze vessel has a tripod base. A fire was simply placed on top of it to maintain the temperature.  The decoration consists mainly of taotie masks and geometric patterns in relief on a plain background. The handle starts from the mouth of the vessel in the shape of a mythological beast and ends at the central body of the vessel or jar. This body is decorated with three hard-stone plaques decorated and set in the same bronze.  A possible Shang Dynasty reproduction.

It shows generalized wear and flaws on one of the sides.

Height: 16.5 x 6.8 cm