Lot 1217. An archaic bronze ritual wine vessel, gu, Shang dynasty, 13th-12th century BC; 11½ in. (29.2 cm.) high. Estimate USD 40,000 - USD 60,000. Price realised USD 60,000. © Christie's Images Ltd 2013

The tall slender vessel is divided into three sections. The trumpet-shaped upper body is crisply cast with four upright cicada blades, and the central section and spreading foot are decorated with a dense leiwen and taotie-pattern band divided by four vertical ribbed flanges, and separated by two bow-string bands. The surface has a pale green-grey patina with areas of malachite encrustation. The interior of the base is cast with an inscription.

Provenance: Christie's London, 15 June 1998, lot 34