A large archaic ritual bronze vessel "hu", China, Warring states period (480/475-221 BC)

cast with a dense décor of interlaced hooks and scrolls and with tiny bosses, a far reminder of the interlaced "snake-dragon" pattern of the Spring and Autumn period (770-477 BC), the bosses recall the eyes of the "snake-dragons", the dense decor on the body is separated by three undecorated bands with two stylised taotie-mask ring holders on the shoulder - Few very small old repairs. Estimate 9000 €

Provenance: Collection Dr. F.A. Appelt, Zittau, purchased in 1931 for 320 Reichsmark with the art dealer Paul Korbas, Dresden from the Dr. Paul Rothermundt collection, Dresden - Cf. Sotheby's, London, 18.11.1998, lot 807, a hu of similar shape and main decoration except with silver inlays o the three plain bands, dated to the Warring States period.

Nagel Aunctions. Asian Arts. 10-11 November 2008. www.auction.de