Lot 66. A fine archaic bronze ceremonial food vessel, gui, Late Shang dynasty, 12th century BC; 12 in. (30.5 cm.) across handles. Estimate GBP 100,000 - GBP 150,000. Price realised GBP 313,250 © Christie's Images Ltd 2011

The slightly rounded body supported on a tall stepped foot, cast around the exterior with two large taotie masks divided by a central flange and surrounded by C-scrolls, the foot cast with a band of stylised birds and divided into quadrants by raised flanges, all reserved on a leiwen ground, the shoulder similarly decorated and with a small bovine mask to the front and reverse, the sides applied with loop handles emanating from intricate horned animal masks, the interior carved with a pictograph to the centre.