A tall and exceptional bronze vessel 'dui'. China, late Eastern Zhou-dynasty (770-256 BC). Photo Auktionshaus Stahl

Globular vessel, consisting of 2 identically arranged hemispheres, each with 2 loop handles and inscriptions. The upper and the lower bowl each supported by 3 scrolled legs in the shape of mythical creatures (partly rest.). The wall with a fine relief border depicting ornamental birds and oval cicada ornaments. H. 44,5 cm. Estimation : 12 000 €

- The characteristic shpae of the dui developed during the Eastern Zhou dynasty, when they were used as ritual food vessels. See: Rawson, Treasures from Shanghai. Ancient Chinese Bronzes and Jades, London 2009, p. 118.

The dragon-shaped cabriole legs show a strong similarity to a dui-fragment in the British Museum, London (Inv. No. 1970,1104.3). See also: So, Eastern Zhou Ritual Bronzes from the Arthur M. Sackler Collections, vol. III, Washington 1995, p. 69, fig. 126.

The unusual relief border of cicada ornaments is clearly influenced by Shang-models. It can be assumed that the vessel was produced at the geographic periphery of the Zhou-states, as it demonstrates the blending of various cultural influences.

Auktionshaus Stahl. Vendredi 27 septembre 2013. Graumannsweg 54 - 22087 Hamburg. Tel.: +49 (0) 40 34 34 71.