Lot 1249. A rare small bronze vessel and cover, Eastern Zhou dynasty, Early Spring and Autumn period, 8th century BC; 2½ in. (6.4 cm.) across handles. Estimate USD 6,000 - USD 8,000. Price realised USD 47,500. © Christie's Images Ltd 2011

The vessel of oblong section and pouch-like form, flat-cast on both sides with pairs of addorsed dragons forming angular scrolls, a curved line issuing from their jaws continuing up over their heads to terminate in a smaller dragon head, with a pair of small lug handles projecting from the rim that sit below corresponding loops projecting from the rim of the domed cover decorated with scrolls formed by confronted dragons and two addorsed birds, with mottled grey and milky green patina, stand.